Girl being treated in Dublin hospital after losing both legs in farm accident

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A significant fundraising effort is underway for a young girl who suffered life-altering injuries just before her 13th birthday in a farm accident in West Cork.

Féile O'Sullivan was critically injured on a farm in the Beara area of West Cork over a month ago. She sustained serious lower abdomen injuries and had to have both legs amputated in an emergency procedure after being flown to Cork University Hospital, where medics spent days trying to stabilise her, reports Cork Beo.

After much deliberation by her medical team, it was decided that Féile needed to be moved to Dublin for specialist treatment, but her transfer was put on hold for several weeks due to the precarious nature of her condition. She's currently in Dublin undergoing a lengthy rehab process and might not return to West Cork for over a year, according to doctors.

Local Councillor Finbarr Harrington spoke to CorkBeo about the resilience of Féile. He said: "Féile is an incredibly strong girl, in every way. She might not have made it without that strength, and she has faced everything and is still fighting, she is just incredible.

"She has already undergone around 15 surgeries. It's incredibly difficult for Feile and for her mother Maureen and everybody in the community here wants to support them and let them know they will be there for them now and in the years to come."

Cllr Harrington belongs to a committee established to begin fundraising efforts for the 13 year old and her family.

"If you look at who is involved, it is just about every group and every organisation from Beara, Féile played football with Garnish GAA and Beara Ladies, her mother played for her club and for Cork, there's the GAA, there's the local soccer club, Beara United, nationally, we will have Macra na Feirme and the Men's Shed movement getting involved.

"This is just the start of it. Féile is going to need her house altered for when she comes home, the family will need an adapted car, she will need support for the rest of her life and everybody here, the whole community, wants the family to know they will get that.

"Her whole life changed in a split second. But she will have the support of the people here for the rest of her life. That is what we are all working for together, now."

Cllr Harrington mentioned they're keen to hear from anyone across Ireland or internationally who might assist, whether through organising fundraising events or providing practical help.

"Maybe there's a builder or a builders' supplier who can help us with expertise or materials. We'd like to hear from anybody who can help, whether it is by hosting a coffee morning or donating windows and doors."

The organising committee has launched a GoFundMe campaign which, as of 11am this morning, had already amassed over €36,000 towards their €140,000 goal. The Beara boasts a vast diaspora, with individuals from this part of West Cork residing globally, and they anticipate support from the US, Australia and beyond.

In their appeal, they wrote: "Anyone lucky enough to know Féile will tell you how full of life, energy, fun, kindness and what a pure messer she is. She adores dogs and horses.

"Farming is in her blood, and she loves everything about nature, outdoors, staying active - She's also a true sports star - whether football, soccer, gymnastics, or anything involving movement and fun, Féile is always giving it her all, with a smile and a sparkle in her eyes. This accident hasn't changed who she is, but has just changed what she now needs.

"The road ahead will be lengthy and demanding. Féile has undergone extensive surgeries and fought hard to still be with us. She will face many more surgeries to aid her.

"She will need intensive care for months, followed by rigorous rehabilitation, and a total adjustment to a new lifestyle. Beyond the emotional and physical strain, there are significant financial burdens - hospital stays, specialist care, physiotherapy, emotional support, mobility aids, prosthetic limbs, home modifications, and much more we haven't considered yet.

"Her entire family is devastated. Her wonderful community too, resolved to remain resilient and support Féile. The emotional and financial burden is immense. That's why we're reaching out - to ask you to back our remarkable girl during her toughest times.

"Every contribution - large or small - will go directly towards Féile's care - medical treatment, specialist equipment, home adaptations, all the support she'll require now and in the future. Even a supportive message or sharing this page can mean the world.

"Féile is a true fighter. Let's envelop her with love and strength, so she can navigate this incredibly challenging journey. Let's show her just how many people are behind her, cheering her on every step of the way."

You can support Féile O'Sullivan on her journey by visiting the GoFundMe page and making a donation. If you wish to contact the organising committee to offer additional support, you can reach them via the Garnish GAA club on their Facebook page.

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