'You’re lucky it’s only one leg': Tiarnán O’Donnell criticises system after €67k prosthetic fight

Irish Paralympian Tiarnán O’Donnell reveals his struggle to walk after Paris and the €67,000 cost of a new prosthetic, calling for urgent systemic reform

Paris Paralympic Games, Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, Paris, France 30/8/2024 Ireland’s Katie O’Brien and Tiarnan O’Donnell on their way to finishing fourth. Picture: ©INPHO/Maren Derlien

RETURNING home from the Paris Paralympics, Tiarnán O’Donnell couldn’t even carry his own bag through the airport. He was a walking hazard. He was once again disabled and dependent. It had been six years since that combination had last dictated to him.

Having just competed at the pinnacle of his sport, the contrast could not have been greater. And the contrast was only beginning.