A campaign set up in the wake of Tipperary hurler Dillon Quirke's death has revealed that over 10,128 people have been screened for heart conditions since his passing in 2022.
Dillon Quirke was a talented hurler for Tipperary who tragically passed away from SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome).
In his memory, the Dillon Quirke Foundation was established to raise awareness and reduce the number of young people dying from SADS.
As of September 2024, 275 clubs across all 26 counties of Ireland have participated in heart screenings facilitated by the Foundation.
In a press release issued this week, the Foundation announced ambitious plans for 2025, focusing on raising vital funds to continue screening young athletes. Additionally, they aim to push for mandatory screening for young people involved in sports.
Dillon's father, Dan Quirke, and founder of the Foundation, expressed his delight at doubling their target of 5,000 screenings this year.
(Image: Ray McManus/Sportsfile via Getty Images)“At the start of 2024, the Foundation ambitiously set a goal of screening 5,000 individuals within the year,” said Dan Quirke. “We are delighted to have surpassed this target by more than double. These screenings are saving lives. They can detect cardiac abnormalities, enabling those affected to receive appropriate medical treatment and support at an early stage.”
Dan also thanked individuals who chose to attend the screenings following the tragic loss of his son in 2022.
“The Foundation would like to sincerely thank those who have attended screenings, the people who have trusted us to screen them and their loved ones, and the sporting organisations and local clubs that have facilitated us in rolling out this vital screening programme,” he added.
“Thank you to our supporters and advocates nationwide who have donated to our cause or organised fundraisers, big and small. A special thanks to our inaugural corporate partner, Abbott, who continues to generously support our mission. We could not have reached this milestone without your help.”
“Our whole purpose as a foundation is to reduce the number of young people dying from SADS in Ireland, and this support ensures we can continue to carry out our crucial, lifesaving work. We want no family to experience the heartbreak we have endured.”
To learn more about the Dillon Quirke Foundation or to make a donation, please visit dillonquirkefoundation.com.
