16/10/2012

GAA Kidney Transplant Fails

A kidney donated by a former Derry GAA player to a fellow coach has been removed as a result of medical complications which occurred during the transplant.

Joe Brolly donated his kidney to Shane Finnegan as part of an operation at Guys Hospital in London on October 3.

But the kidney had to be removed on 12 October.

A statement from the Belfast Trust said: "This is a rare and unfortunate occurrence after kidney transplantation, (most kidneys from a living donor work successfully for many years).”

"Whilst both families are naturally devastated, they are hugely encouraged by the massive wave of goodwill and support from the community and the resultant increased public awareness of the critical importance of organ donation.

"Mr Finnegan is confident that with the continued support of family and friends he will be home soon and able to resume a full family and work life."

The Trust also revealed the experience has spurred both of the men on to support its campaign for organ donation. Mr Brolly and Mr Finnegan are reported to have agreed to spearhead a drive to increase the number of donors.

"For both men and their families, this has been a life affirming experience," the Trust said.

Mr Finnegan had been waiting for the transplant for over six years.

The two men both coach an under-10 side at St Brigid's GAC in Belfast, where their sons play.

(IT)

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