West Cork girl Féile O'Sullivan 'making good progress' after leaving intensive care

She is likely to remain at CHI in Crumlin for some time after over 50 surgeries and procedures since she lost both legs in a farming accident

Féile O'Sullivan and her mother Maureen in CHI at Crumlin hospital with the Sam Maguire Cup last weekend.

Féile O'Sullivan, the West Cork teenager who lost both legs in a farming accident, is now out of the intensive care unit, though her treatment continues at Crumlin Hospital.

The sports-mad girl had a devastating accident in early July at her hometown of Allihies. Since then she has gone through over 50 surgeries and procedures, first at Cork University Hospital and for some months now in CHI at Crumlin in Dublin.

Her mother Maureen has been by her side every day, with other friends and family including her grandparents taking turns to visit. This included an unusual visitor last weekend when some Kerry supporters brought the Sam Maguire cup into her ward.

The family’s spokesman Cllr Finbarr Harrington said she was moved out of the ICU earlier this month. 

“She’s an unbelievable kid,” he said. “When you consider what she’s been through she’s unbelievable. She’s looking forward to getting home, that’s her big thing.” 

She is on the general ward now, he said, which is another marker in her progress. A new electric wheelchair donated by a family in Cavan is being adapted for her use.

“Féile is getting used to that chair at the moment,” Mr Harrington said. “There will be a bit of work in that, she’s moving to that side of it now where for the past few months it was hospital bed totally.” 

He added: “It is exciting for them, she’s making good progress.” 

Féile is, however, likely to remain at Crumlin for some time. He said:

She’s extremely grateful that she’s alive. Extremely grateful for the care she’s getting, they’re unbelievable people who work in children’s hospitals. 

A giant fundraising campaign has now reached over €689,000 and continues around the country led by groups in Allihies. 

Fastnet Rally in Bantry this weekend has offered its support. At Macroom Mart on Saturday a Charolais-cross Belgian Blue bullock donated by farmers Daniel and Edwina Power will add to the funds. 

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Mr Harrington highlighted other significant efforts, including the All-Ireland GAA Golf Classic earlier this month. Around 250 golfers took part in this charity tournament.

This has funded an adapted car for the family. It was supplied by Michael Lyng Motors in Kilkenny who also sorted out the registration paperwork.