Message from PRO, Martin Moran

On a never-to-be-forgotten-day in May, 2002 our eighteen-year old twin boys were involved in a horrific road traffic accident. One of them was very seriously injured and underwent a thirteen-hour operation in UCHG. He was then transferred to Beaumont on a life-support machine as he was in a coma. Three weeks later when he regained consciousness our family were elated. However, over the next few days we slowly realised that there was something not right with him. More tests were carried out and we were told that our son had a brain injury (ABI).

One week later he was returned to UCHG, as there was no place for him at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Dun Laoghaire. We were told that he would receive all the treatment, therapy and rehabilitation necessary there. At this stage we were feeling tired physically and mentally drained. We knew that if we were to assist our son to make as full a recovery as possible we needed support and help. Luckily we have lots of friends willing to support us and offer advice. We asked questions and we searched for answers from medical personnel, various bodies/agencies and the internet. We received a substantial amount of help and assistance and for this we are truly grateful. However, I feel we would not have reached our present stage without the tremendous support we received from the Galway Head Injury Support Group. Their support enabled us to cope better with our son’s disabilities and it empowered us to support and help him through the very difficult times.

He has made tremendous progress since the accident and while he has returned to his studies at NUIG (part time) he still has a way to go. Progress is much slower now than in the early stages, but with God’s help and the help of his family and friends we are confident that he will get there.

In those dark days, that seems a long time ago now, when our family had to face that dreadful dilemma when we did not know which way to turn, Galway Head Injury Support Group came to our rescue. They were a lifeline when we needed it most. It was for this reason that I became a member of the committee and I hope to be able to offer help to others that may find themselves in similar situations. If you feel that we could be of assistance to you, do not hesitate in giving Bríd or Eileen a call at 091 768  168.