A truly remarkable story.
Former Westmeath footballer John Egan is recovering in hospital from a successful kidney transplant.
Amazingly it was his father-in-law who provided him with the organ after a 15-year battle with a chronic kidney problem.
Egan was forced to end his inter-county career at the age of twenty-eight after a series of injuries and with his kidney function at less than 30% in 2018.
He has been outspoken during the process about the need for more people to become donors and was one of thousands across Ireland impacted by the delay in a return to non-covid procedures during the pandemic.
This year had seen the function of the kidney in question drop below 9% before his father-in-law Ollie stepped in and proved a suitable match.
The now 31-year-old tweeted from hospital, saying:
On Monday this week I received a lifesaving kidney from my friend and father-in-law Ollie. Both myself, Ollie and the kidney are all doing well. Thanks to everyone who has reached out over the last few years and shown support. I really appreciate it.
For anyone who sees this, please consider becoming an organ donor or have the conversation with your family & friends. Thanks a mill, John.
On Monday this week I received a lifesaving kidney from my friend and father-in-law Ollie. Both myself, Ollie and the kidney are all doing well. Thanks to everyone who has reached out over the last few years and shown support. I really appreciate it. #KidneyTransplant #ThankYou pic.twitter.com/yOgoxWG87H
— John Egan (@JohnEgan1111) November 10, 2021
Well wishes have flooded in from the GAA world and beyond to Egan following the post.
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