Paul is getting stronger after double transplant

A TEENAGER who created medical history with a double lung transplant is hoping to return to school and complete his Leaving Certificate.

Paul Minchin, with cystic fibrosis, created medical history in the Mater Hospital two weeks ago when he became the first person in Ireland to receive a double lung transplant in an Irish hospital after a four-hour operation.

Paul’s father, Peter, said the transplant operation could not have arrived at a more crucial period in his life.

“Paul had been continually on oxygen as his condition worsened over the past two years. For a period we only thought of the worst and feared for his future. Now he is new man.”

The 18-year-old Carlow teenager, who once prayed for injury-stricken horse Danoli while on pilgrimage to Lourdes as a then seven-year-old, was forced to quit school on completion of his Junior Certificate owing to his worsening illness.

Describing Paul as a bright young boy despite his illness, Peter said: “He always attended school, though he was forced to miss more days than others, which was not surprising. Over the last years his lungs were becoming problematic. Now that is all behind him.

“Paul feels so strong and is now eating. We’re not sure when he’ll be out, but hopefully he’s back home shortly.”

Paul’s mother, Margaret, said, “I’m still pinching myself that it’s happened and that Paul is well.”

Paul and his family live next door to the stables of National Hunt trainer, Tom Foley, who had the great Danoli in his yard.

It was when Danoli received a serious leg injury at Aintree that Paul, who was on a pilgrimage with his parents to Lourdes at the time, went to the Grotto to light some candles so the great horse would be able to race again.

Danoli recovered from his horrific leg injury to go on and capture more major races before retiring.

So close was Paul to Danoli making his daily visits that he became known as Danoli’s stable boy.

Over the past few years Paul had become more prone to infections and had to be hospitalised regularly. His worsening condition prompted him to take the brave step putting his name forward for the transplant.

“This will be a new life for Paul,” his delighted mother explained.