A fundraiser has been launched to raise money for the family of a Newry toddler who suffered a severe brain injury after choking on his lunch.
The GoFundMe page has been created on behalf of Harry Collins who – just weeks shy of his second birthday – sustained the ‘life changing brain injury’ in September 2024.
Two women, Joanne Haffey and Anna Moody, have now committed to running the Limerick City Marathon on May 4 to help raise money for Harry’s ongoing needs, including any specialist equipment he may require as well as for specialist therapies.
Joanne explained: “Harry is a gorgeous little two-year-old boy. Last year Harry sustained a brain injury caused by a serious choking incident while he was having his lunch.
“Harry was without oxygen for 50 minutes that has resulted in him sustaining a life changing brain injury.
“Harry spent four months in hospital and is now at home with his family. He will require ongoing therapeutic intervention and specialist equipment.
“Harry’s family are dedicated to giving him the best quality of life that they can.”
While in hospital, Harry’s family were informed that he would require the use of a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He is also now vision impaired and needs help with feeding.
They are engaged in frequent occupational therapy appointments and are working closely with physiotherapists to help give Harry the best opportunities possible.
The freak accident – that could have easily happened to anyone – has had life changing implications for Harry and his entire family, including his older sibling.
As a result, Joanne noted that Harry’s family are now committed to raising awareness and educating the public about how to act when a child or adult is choking.
Joanne signposts to insightful and potentially life-saving first aid information for babies when choking issued by the British Red Cross here and by the Health and Safety Executive for choking in children one year and above here.
Urging the public to take the time to read, she says: “It will only take you 5 – 10 mins to read the advice, you never know when you might need it.”
She adds: “Please donate whatever you can it will make a difference and send all of your positive thoughts Harry’s way!”
You can make a donation to Joanne and Anna’s GoFundMe page here.
