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Young GAA players in Cork screened for heart abnormalities under the work of Dillon Quirke Foundation
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Programme has already identified 243 cardiac abnormalities in young GAA players
The Foundation was established in honour of former Tipperary hurler Dillon, who collapsed during a club hurling match with Clonoulty/Rossmore and passed away of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) during August, 2022 in Semple Stadium, Thurles.
His family - parents Dan and Hazel, along with sisters Shannon and Kellie - formed the Dillon Quirke Foundation with a mission to prevent similar tragedies by funding cardiac screenings.
Unfortunately SADS claims 100 young lives each year in Ireland, and the Foundation was created with the aim of raising awareness and setting up a screening programme for players, both male and female, from 12 years of age upwards.
During 2024, the charity visited 275 sports clubs across GAA, soccer, rugby, boxing and performing arts.
In conjunction with Cork-based Advanced Medical Services, a total of 243 cardiac abnormalities were detected because of the programme and the subsequent advice provided to undergo follow-up cardiology examinations.
Ballydesmond GAA Club Chairman Niall Ronan extended thanks to Dillon Quirke Foundation for their presence with 46 boys and girls participating in the vital service.
'The response was brilliant, the event targeted our players aged between 12 and 18years old, its aim is to prioritise the health and well-being of our young teams by offering cardiac screenings,' he said.
