Fanad footballer Keri Sweeney is back on the pitch again – after kind donations enabled the purchase of a defibrillator.
After six months out of action, due to a heart condition, the talented midfielder was unsure if she would ever get back playing again.
Earlier this year, an MRI scan showed suggestions of perimyocarditis and it was confirmed that a virus had attacked her heart and caused pericarditis/myocarditis.
Recently, Professor Kevin Walsh, at The Mater Private in Dublin, gave the Mulroy College teenager the green light to return, but with one strict condition: There had to be a defibrillator and trained personnel on site.
A Go Fund Me page was set up and, following an interview with Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub– in which Keri outlined the aim of raising awareness on the importance of having defibrillators – the magic total was reached in double quick time.
“I have purchased my defibrillator and I am now back playing football again,” Keri said. The proceeds from the Donegal Women’s League’s Charity Shield final also went to the fund.
Keri Sweeney presents Swilly captain Claire McCarron with the Charity Shield. The gate receipt from the game went towards the purchase of a defibrillator for Keri.
“As I have raised more than my target, I am now in a position to contribute to the cost of training for coaches and other defibrillators in the area.
“Thanks to my campaign, schools and clubs in the area are now in the process of purchasing defibrillators and I am delighted with this outcome.
“I’d also like to thank Siobhan, Barry and all at Medichem Supplies for providing my defibrillator to me at a great price and to Aiden Thompson from Donegal Safety Training Solutions for providing free defib training for all of my family – it is very much appreciated.”
