Sisters from County Carlow injured in M9 crash thank public for their love and support

THREE sisters who were seriously injured in the M9 crash in August have shared an update on their recovery, thanking the public for the “love and support” they have received.

Alma and Niamh Kinsella, aged in their 30s, their sister Ella Hendricken, aged in her 20s, and Alma’s son Yemi (7) were critically injured when a BMW car travelling in the wrong direction on the M9 motorway crashed into their car.

The family, who are originally from the Bennekerry area and later moved to Graiguecullen, were travelling to Dublin Airport for an early morning flight to England to attend a family wedding.

The five teenage occupants of the BMW – Joey Carthy, Jack Kennedy, Alex McCarthy, Jeremy O’Brien and Kamil Pustkowski – were killed in the crash.

A GoFundMe page, launched in the aftermath to support the family during their recovery, has raised over €835,000.

In an update posted on the page, Ella, Niamh and Alma thanked the public for the “incredible generosity” shown to them.

The statement reads: “As we look back on everything that has happened over the past few months, it’s difficult to find the words to express just how grateful we are.

“Throughout this journey, we have been reminded of the incredible kindness and compassion that exists in the world. The love and support we have received from so many people has meant more to us than words could ever express.

“To everyone who has donated, sent messages, offered well wishes, kept us in your thoughts and prayers or reached out to show their support, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. The generosity shown by people in our own community, across Ireland and further afield has been truly overwhelming.

“A very special thank you to our family, friends and everyone who has stood by our side throughout this journey. Your kindness, love and encouragement have meant so much to us and we will never forget the incredible generosity you have shown has provided our family with practical support, comfort and reassurance for the future. Knowing that so many people care about us has meant more than words can express.

“From all of us, thank you for your generosity, your prayers, your well wishes and for helping us through one of the most difficult chapters of our lives.

“We will never forget your kindness and support and we will be forever grateful.

With all our love and heartfelt gratitude, Ella, Niamh and Alma.”