Clare community rallies in memory of young man who died after severe blood loss

Dylan Costelloe Clohessy died in April 2024 while on holiday in Bali

The late Dylan Costelloe Clohessy, who tragically died in Bali in 2024. Picture: Edelle Costelloe.

A Clare mother will donate blood for the first time in 20 years in memory of her son, who died in Bali after suffering severe blood loss following an accident.

Clare County Council is co-ordinating an on-site blood donation drive at The Civic Room in the Buttermarket Building, Ennis, on Wednesday, in partnership with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS), from 3pm to 6pm.

The initiative is being spearheaded by council employee Edelle Costelloe, who lost her son Dylan in 2024.

Dylan Costelloe Clohessy, from Kilmaley, died on April 12, 2024, while on holiday in Bali. Following an accident, he suffered severe blood loss. When he arrived at hospital, approximately 30 minutes after the incident, no immediate blood supply was available.

Ms Costelloe told the Irish Examiner: “Several hours later, blood arrived for transfusion. However, Dylan tragically went into cardiac arrest two minutes after receiving his first transfusion. Sadly, it was too late for Dylan.”

The late Dylan Costelloe Clohessy and his mother Edelle. Picture: Courtesy of Edelle Costelloe.

Ms Costelloe said more than 100 people had expressed interest in donating blood ahead of the initiative.

“The last time I donated blood was 20 years ago. Dylan has inspired me to donate blood, I would hope to be a regular donor from today,” she said.

“Dylan was a kind and community person, this is about honouring Dylan in a way that it will help others in the future.

“If it creates awareness and can help other families in the future, I'd be more than delighted.”

Ms Costelloe added that blood donation saves lives every day, yet many people do not realise how urgently blood can be needed “until a family emergency happens”.

“The support has been overwhelming and incredibly moving. We hope this initiative encourages more local authorities, workplaces, and public bodies nationwide to support blood donation initiatives within their own communities for families may need it in the future,” she said.

Members of the public can book a blood donation appointment through the Irish Blood Transfusion Service on 1800 222 111 or via the IBTS website.