Man blinded after attack to undergo stem cell treatment
Brian Hogan, 35, suffered brain damage after an unprovoked attack in Nottingham when he was assaulted by a British national. During the incident, Brian, from Ballykeeffe, hit his head on a pavement and subsequently spent three months in a coma at Queen’s Hospital in the city.
After months of rehabilitation, he relearned how to talk, but has been left blind and must use a wheelchair.
Brian said the treatment he will undergo in China has attracted controversy but anybody in his position would try everything to get their life back on track.
He will receive stem cell infusions once every two days over a three-week period, as well as other therapies.
His sister Nevis said: “This is finally happening. We’re all very excited, but we’re also sick with nerves. We know it may or may not work but we have to try for Brian’s sake. Anyone in our position would do the same. It’s a medical trial, not conventional medicine, and it could take up to six months before we see the full results. We would ask people to keep him in their thoughts over the next few weeks. He’s very positive and always tries to keep the bright side out. He still enjoys life.”
Two anonymous donors have given €10,000 towards the treatment costs, which total €40,000.
The man who carried out the unprovoked attack has been before the UK courts but Brian holds no bitterness towards him.
“I do get a bit angry. The way I look at it, that person took enough from me; he’s not having any more. I know that one day I will have a great life. Life is so fragile and it can be snapped away so quickly. When something like this happens, it doesn’t just alter your life, but the lives of those around you.
“Sitting all day in a wheelchair isn’t my scene really. I was always on the go. Losing my sight was the hardest thing. It can be very lonely and you can feel quite vulnerable.”
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
