Selfless Conor, 10, raises funds for Crumlin Hospital

A selfless and plucky 10-year-old boy who has undergone numerous operations to rectify curvature of his spine is organising a fundraiser tonight for Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin and the Ronald McDonald House.

Conor Coughlan from Ballinhassig, Co Cork has featured on the website and publicity brochures which appeal for funds for Ronald McDonald House — the fast-food charity’s building which accommodates relatives of sick children attending the Dublin hospital.

Five years ago, Conor was diagnosed with rare bone disorder spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia — which leads to curvature of the spine, deformed hips, a clubbed foot and breathing difficulties.

He first had metal rods inserted in his spine to correct the problem in Apr 2008 and has to get them lengthened every six months.

“This time last year, when attending Crumlin, we met two families that were staying in the Ronald McDonald House whose children were seriously ill. Six months later those two families were still living in their home-away-from-home,” Conor’s mother, Mary, said.

She said her son had decided to raise money for the hospital and the charity because both helped children so much.

Conor’s hips have been corrected during two of the rod lengthening operations; his foot is being constantly monitored and all his organs function at 100%.

“Conor’s life has been transformed over the past five years. He enjoys playing hurling and football with Ballinhassig, doing athletics with Old Abbey, being part of the 99th Cork Scouts, swimming and any other activities that children his age enjoy,” his father Con said.

Conor is hoping as many people as possible will come to the Marion Hall, Ballinhassig, at 8pm this evening for a ‘garden night’ where they can learn how to pot plants, sow their own vegetables and master flower arranging.