Appeal launched to help Waterford boy after terrifying health ordeal
Lorek is a 1st year student at Mount Sion CBS Secondary School in Waterford.
A 13-year-old Mount Sion student is in the battle of his young life after suffering a terrifying health ordeal.
Lorek O'Keefe fell ill on May 18 and was rushed to University Hospital Waterford (UHW) with severe chest pain and no movement in his left leg. After a CT scan and blood tests, doctors discovered an aortic dissection, or tear in the main artery (aorta) of his heart.
Last week, Lorek underwent a life-saving 15-hour heart surgery at CHI Crumlin. Surgeons were able to replace his heart valve and repair the top artery to his heart. While the surgery was successful, Lorek suffered three mini-strokes (or Transient Ischemic Attacks) and lost the use of his left leg.
Unfortunately, a second aneurysm was found in his aorta that is currently inoperable. Lorek will need to undergo more surgery to keep the blood flow to his brain. He has also sustained injuries on the arteries leading the brain.
Lorek's parents are now caring for him full-time and have had to give up work for the time being. The situation has been devastating not only emotionally but also financially for the whole family. A GoFundMe has been opened to help Lorek and his family during this terrible time.
Money raised will go to covering "medical costs, transport, accommodation near the hospital, and to support Lorek’s recovery journey".
There will also be a number of local fundraising events to help Lorek and his family, with donations welcome.
Mount Sion issued a statement about Lorek encouraging people to donate: "Lorek is a kind, funny, and thoughtful young man. He is the first to look out for others and is cherished by his friends and staff members alike.
"As a school community, we want to support Lorek and his family in any way we can."
At the time of writing, the GoFundMe had raised €12,870 of the €16,000 target.
