'Fighting for my family' - Kildare mum to get life-saving transplants

Family and friends of an Athgarvan, Co Kildare mother of three are fundraising for life-saving multi-organ transplants in the UK. 

In September 2024, Elaine McDonald, a 41 year old loving wife and devoted mother of three girls, was rushed to hospital with severe abdominal pains.

Elaine's friend, Antoinette O'Keeffe, who is organising an idonate.ie fundraising campaign,  says:

"It was touch and go for a long time, and Elaine has been through the mill.

"However, after a lot of surgeries, the amazing teams in St James Hospital Dublin managed to save Elaine's life.

Unfortunately, due to the catastrophic injuries and surgeries required, Elaine is not well enough to live outside of the hospital. Elaine is in intestinal failure type 3 secondary to a non-viable ultra short bowel(she is nil by mouth, and her bowel and intestines can't function).

"On a good note, Elaine has been approved for a multi-organ life-saving transplant in the UK.

READ MORE: Kildare women praised on US trade mission.

"Elaine has fought so hard to be here for her family, especially her three daughters aged 17, 16, and 10.

"Elaine is a very strong and proud woman who has always been quick to help others and wouldn't think twice about herself.

"I would like to see some of the good karma Elaine puts out in the world come back to her now when her family needs it the most.

"If you could support them with any donation of any value, we would be most grateful for to you.

"Your donation will help lighten the financial burden and allow this family to be together in the UK when Elaine receives multi-organ transplant and life-saving surgeries."

Athgarvan GAA and LGFA Club said: