Hi everyone,

As many of you know, on the 10th July this year, Paul suffered a catastrophic brain haemorrhage due to heart complications with chances of survival slim to none. On the evening of the 11th July, Paul's family were told to prepare for the worst. After life-saving surgery that night by the incredible neurosurgery team at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, Paul spent almost four weeks in an induced coma, from which we were informed there would be little hope of a full recovery.

At the beginning of August, Paul started to wake from his coma and has since defied the odds overcoming several infections, a tracheostomy, threat of further brain bleeds, vision impairment and little movement all whilst being treated for endocarditis, a potentially fatal heart infection.

In just eight weeks, Paul is beginning to slowly get his life back and his incredible determination to get back on his feet is an inspiration to us all.

Paul has one more mammoth mountain to climb...next week he will face another life-saving surgery. This time a heart operation to replace two major heart valves damaged by the endocarditis; a hugely risky operation under normal circumstances but doubly so in Paul's current condition. All told, there are so many unknowns for Paul but no matter what way you look at it, its a very long road to recovery.

Paul is one of a kind. His incredible generosity, positivity and good nature makes him a true joy to be around.

And God, he loves the craic! Paul's community spirit is second to none. Since he was a 6 year old scout he has never hesitated to volunteer

his time from fundraising for the Children's Heart Foundation as a teenager, helping out with coaching and being an active member of Ballina Stephenites, and over the last few years ironically, saving lives as part of the Ballina Community First Responders group and St John Ambulance Mayo.

His biggest and most cherished role of all is, of course, being a devoted Daddy to his two beautiful children, James & Saoirse.

The Ballina Community First Responders are a group of volunteers from all walks of life who have joined together to work alongside the National Ambulance service and respond to those having heart attacks and strokes in the Ballina area. As a voluntary community group, we wanted to do something positive for one of our own, and support Paul and his family through their time of need, and give back to someone who has selflessly given so much.

With Annette and the McGarry family's support, we are promoting this fundraiser for all Paul's friends, wider family, colleagues and community to support him in his challenging journey.

Together, let's raise as much as we can for our true friend and everyday hero.

Thank you all for your support.

Leonard McDonnell

Coordinator Ballina CFR

Paul's Road to Recovery

Created by Ballina Community First Responders

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