Family of late Carlow hurler urge people to donate blood as part of new campaign
Hurler of the year John McGrath said he was proud to support Oisín’s campaign
THE family of the late Carlow and Naomh Eoin hurler, Oisín Kelly, along with Naomh Eoin members and players from across Carlow GAA, travelled to Croke Park to honour his legacy and back the national blood donation campaign ‘Every Drop Counts’ with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS).
Oisín was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 2021 and sadly passed away in August 2023, at the age of 21. Throughout his illness, Oisín received many blood and platelet transfusions, which were vital to his treatment, and began raising awareness about the importance of blood donation, especially among young people.
Oisín felt strongly that GAA clubs and players could lead the way and promote this vital service, which led to his campaign under the message ‘Every Drop Counts, I Know’.
Oisín’s parents, Brendan and Sinéad, were joined at Croke Park by Old Leighlin footballer Aaron Amond, Naomh Eoin and Carlow hurlers Brian Tracey, John Michael Nolan, and Colm Beck, and Carlow footballer Edel Hayden.
Also in attendance supporting the campaign were Tipperary hurler John McGrath; Louth footballer Sam Mulroy; Galway camogie player Dervla Higgins and Dublin footballer Carla Rowe.
Speaking at the campaign launch, hurler of the year John McGrath said: “I’m proud to support Oisín’s campaign. The GAA is built on community, and giving blood is one of the most meaningful ways to help others.
“I am asking players, supporters and clubs to roll up their sleeves, your donation could be someone’s lifeline.” Ireland’s blood supply is currently under pressure due to increasing hospital demand, with just 3% of the eligible population donating blood.
Through the campaign, the IBTS is aiming to encourage more young people to give blood. The current average donor age is 46, and only 17% of current donors are aged between 18 and 30.
CEO of IBTS, Orla O’Brien said: “Young donors are critical to the long-term sustainability of Ireland’s blood supply.
“Blood cannot be manufactured; we rely entirely on the generosity of donors. We are asking more young people aged 18-30 to begin their donation journey and their clubs to encourage them and spread the message.” GAA clubs across Ireland are encouraged to register as a Club Donor Partner and help champion regular blood donation in their communities.
Registration is quick and gives clubs access to posters, social assets, clinic updates and tailored support from the IBTS to help build a strong donation culture within their membership. Younger donors and clubs can sign up at: www.giveblood.ie/campaigns/oisin-kelly/ To check your eligibility and find your nearest donation clinic, visit www.giveblood.ie
