Dean Rock visits fan Max Kelly, 15, who suffers from rare immune disorder

Seven-time All-Ireland football winner Dean Rock made a special visit to the Kelly family in Balbriggan to meet 15-year-old fan Max.

Dean was representing the partnership between the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) and Cliona’s Foundation aimed at highlighting the work of Cliona’s Foundation, a national charity providing practical support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting condition.

Max recently arrived back in Dublin and is recovering having spent several months in a hospital in Newcastle, England, where he underwent a stem cell transplant for a rare immune disorder that he was born with.

According to the GPA, it and Cliona’s Foundation “recently announced an official charity partnership agreement to raise vital funds to make a difference to the lives of families across Ireland caring for a seriously sick child.

“This partnership will see inter-county players across the thirty-two counties support Cliona’s Foundation’s life-changing work and contribute to the fundraising efforts of the charity for the next twelve-month period.”

Speaking about his visit Dean Rock said: “Max is an amazing young lad who is very inspiring – it really was an honour to meet him and his fantastic family.

“I am delighted to support the work of Cliona’s Foundation – every day of the year they make a positive difference to lives of families and children going through very challenging times.”

Cliona’s Foundation provides financial assistance to families of children with complex care needs to help with non-medical expenses related to caring for their child.

Cliona’s has supported 106 families this year to date in 25 counties bringing the total number supported over the past 14 years to 955.

Individuals wishing to donate or find out more about Cliona’s Foundation’s impact can go to: https://clionas.ie/.

Donations can also be made via text.  To donate €4 text FAMILIES to 50300.  (Text cost €4 & Cliona’s will receive a minimum of €3.60. SP: LikeCharity, Helpline: 076 6805 278)