The tragic accidental death of a teenager from Kerry leaves lasting traces – the family collects 50,000 euros

Organised on the third anniversary of his death – the year he would have turned 18 – the Thomas Healy Memorial Football Blitz in July was a memorial to the football-mad teenager, raising funds in his name.

And the event exceeded all expectations: 50,000 euros were raised for organisations in Kerry, most notably the St. Francis Special School in Beaufort, which received more than 41,000 euros.

For headteacher Keith Ó Brolacháin, the money couldn't have come at a better time as work has been carried out on the school throughout the summer, including new windows and doors, but also new outdoor learning and relaxation areas for each classroom. The development of these areas was funded by the department, but now thanks to the Thomas Healy Football Blitz these areas can be decorated and equipped with equipment for the children.

“It means we can provide the children with their own specialist equipment in a safe environment. We had no idea where we would get the money to equip the rooms, so it was a question of when the timing was right,” said Mr Ó Brolacháin.

“I didn't know Thomas, but I think this is an appropriate use of funds to get kids outdoors. Honestly, it's incredible, it came at the right time.”

Smaller donations were also made to Beaufort GAA Club, a fitting tribute to Thomas who played for the club, and they also helped to host the Football Blitz, which will go down in history as an unforgettable and huge success.

Beaufort GAA Club chairman Moss Foley said they were grateful for the €3,500 and plan to spend the money on equipping the gym so that all players – and the community as a whole – can benefit.

St. Mary of the Angels also benefited from the tournament. Every cent counts for them and these funds will help improve the lives of the residents of the important Beaufort facility. “We are very grateful,” said Marcus Gunther.

A final donation went to Liam Dennehy Quinn, a teenager from Fossa whose fight for scoliosis surgery touched the hearts of the nation earlier this year. Liam has serious health problems including cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a rare disease called glutaric aciduria type 1. His mother Pamela said Julie's donation will help Liam in his recovery from surgery.

“Julie is fabulous and it's wonderful that Liam's name is associated with this lightning bolt. We are thrilled. She said it was a small gesture but anything helps,” said Pamela, who hopes the donations will be enough for physical therapy so that Liam can regain his strength.

The Healy family also expressed their gratitude to the community for supporting the Blitz.

“July 7, 2024, the third anniversary of Thomas Healy's tragic passing, was a day filled with bittersweet memories for our family. But going forward, this July 7th will also carry the wonderful memories of one of the most successful fundraisers in the close-knit community of Beaufort, where every man, woman and child came out and supported the family to put on the Thomas Healy Memorial Football Blitz.

“We would like to thank everyone who helped make the Thomas Healy Memorial Football Blitz such a huge success. Without your help, this would not have been possible,” said Julie.