On the 24th of September 2023, while playing a hurling match, I suffered a sudden cardiac arrest caused by a rare condition called commotio cordis. It happens when a sudden blow to the chest lands at an exact moment in the heart’s electrical cycle — just 20–40 milliseconds — disrupting the rhythm and causing cardiac arrest. It’s incredibly rare but can happen to anyone, even with a healthy heart.
Thanks to the quick actions of those on the pitch and sidelines, as well as access to CPR and an AED, my life was saved that day. I’m forever grateful to them and to the amazing team at University Hospital Limerick who helped me recover.
That experience changed my life. I knew I wanted to give something back — and that’s why I’m organising a 5km Fun Run in aid of the Irish Heart Foundation.
The Irish Heart Foundation does life-saving work across Ireland through:
- CPR training in schools, workplaces, and communities
- Public education on how to act in emergencies
- A nurse support line for people recovering from cardiac events
I only discovered that last service after my own incident — and it really struck a chord. Going through something like this takes a toll emotionally as well as physically. Having someone to talk to matters more than I can say.
If my story encourages even one person to learn CPR, then it’s worth it. Over 70% of cardiac arrests happen outside hospitals. Bystanders trained in CPR can double or triple someone’s chance of survival.
Please consider donating or taking part. One life saved makes all the difference.
