Sport

Lowry champions life-saving cause for Tullamore toddler battling sepsis

Offaly native Shane Lowry has released a heartfelt video message on social media to help a two-year-old boy named Joey Conway in his hometown, who is suffering from sepsis recieve treatement in the USA

In January 2023, Joey received the diagnosis of portal hypertension and portal vein thrombosis after undergoing various tests. His journey took another unexpected turn in March 2023, when, at the age of 20 months, he battled sepsis once again. This episode landed him in the ICU for two weeks, reliant on a ventilator. Fortunately, Joey emerged from this critical situation.

At two and a half years old, he is yet to walk, and his weakened immune system results in weekly bouts of sickness.

The family hopes to acquire a life-altering Meso Rex Shunt/Bypass surgery for young Joey. To fund the surgical procedure, they've setup a GoFundMe campaign, which aims to raise funds totaling €330,000.

The good news so far is that over €305,000 has been raised out of the total needed.

Lowry, one of Ireland's best-known sportstars and golfers, has already donated €10,000 to the cause and is urging people to chip in and help the Conway family with that final push with whatever they can via a video message

Let’s get this little fella to America @JoeyTogether 💚 #JoinTogetherForJoey pic.twitter.com/xckl4TCTJH

— Shane Lowry (@ShaneLowryGolf) January 9, 2024

"Over the last few days, I've been made aware of a little boy from Tullamore called Joey Conway who is in major need of some surgery in the US, in Chicago, said X

"Him and his family are trying to raise much-needed funds to help him get this surgery. It'll be both life-changing and life-saving for Joey, so I'd just like to put a message out there.

"If anybody is able to give anything or help towards this cause, everyone in Tullamore, Offaly and the wider community will be very grateful. Just give whatever you can. Like I said, we'd all be very grateful.

"Let's join together for Joey and get this little fella to America and help save his life."

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