The Limerick dad explained that at 12 years old she was diagnosed with a rare and progressive genetic condition called Alpers disease.
David shared that after being told about his daughter’s condition, his family were faced with incredibly difficult decisions. David and his wife spoke about who would care for Sarah as they realised one of them had to stay at home full-time. “She ended up going in early in the mornings, staying back late and doing weekends just so we could survive.”David featured in the Virgin Media documentary ‘Ireland’s Forgotten Families’ which revealed the reality facing Irish families who have a child with a life-limiting illness or complex care needs and the support they get from Cliona’s Foundation.“You literally have to decide, ‘Do I eat one meal less a day’, while I’m in the hospital canteen minding my daughter.
“It’s just that when you have a kid that’s been diagnosed with Alpers, their needs have to come first. You have to prioritise what bills you have to pay.”