'Every drop counts': Young Carlow hurler’s legacy inspires new generation of blood donors

A group of Carlow GAA players travelled to Croke Park this week to honour the legacy of young Naomh Eoin hurler Oisín Kelly, whose story is now at the heart of a major national blood donation campaign.

Players from across the county joined Oisín’s parents, Brendan and Sinéad, as the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) launched the ‘Every Drop Counts’ appeal aimed at boosting donor numbers among younger people.

The event shone a national spotlight on Oisín’s courage and the message he championed throughout his illness.

The Carlow contingent included Aaron Amond (Old Leighlin), Brian Tracey (Naomh Eoin and Carlow), John Michael Nolan (Naomh Eoin and Carlow), veteran footballer Edel Hayden, and Colm Beck (Naomh Eoin and Carlow).

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Oisín, from Myshall, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2021 and passed away in August 2023 at just 21. A gifted hurler and footballer, he remained determined throughout his illness to highlight the importance of blood donation.

Throughout his treatment for osteosarcoma, Oisín received multiple blood and platelet transfusions. His words, “Every drop counts, I know,” are now the driving force behind the nationwide push.

The IBTS says Ireland urgently needs to attract younger donors. The average donor age is 46, just 17 percent are aged between 18 and 30, and only three percent of the eligible population currently gives blood, despite one in four people needing a transfusion in their lifetime.

Hurler of the Year John McGrath joined Oisín’s parents at the launch, urging players everywhere to lead by example.

“I’m proud to support Oisín’s campaign. The GAA is built on community, and giving blood is one of the most meaningful ways to help others. I am asking players, supporters and clubs to roll up their sleeves, your donation could be someone’s lifeline.”

IBTS CEO Orla O’Brien echoed that message: “Young donors are critical to the long-term sustainability of Ireland’s blood supply. Blood cannot be manufactured, we rely entirely on the generosity of donors. We are asking more young people aged 18-30 to begin their donation journey, and their clubs to encourage them and spread the message.”

Clubs nationwide are now being encouraged to register as a Club Donor Partner, a simple step that provides access to posters, social media assets, clinic updates and IBTS support to help build a strong donor culture locally. Younger donors and clubs can sign up at giveblood.ie.