Lee Ois' new father Kevin McEvoy dies while waiting on heart transplant list

Following a tragic bereavement, the Laois family are calling on the public to remember the gift of organ donation in their darkest moments.

Sarah McEvoy, from Killeshin, bravely spoke out about losing her beloved brother Kevin to heart disease in September last year.

Just 34 years old, he had just married his wife Deborah two years earlier and had just welcomed their baby son Keelin into the world.

“In 2019 Kevin was diagnosed with heart failure. His condition was managed under the excellent care of St James's Hospital.

“However, early last year Kevin's condition began to deteriorate rapidly and he was transferred to Mater Hospital to begin his journey for a heart transplant. He spent his last 140 days in the care of our wonderful staff. Ta.”

The family is grateful to everyone from the professors to the porters and calls the nurses “Kevin's angels.”

“His life depended on a new heart. A heart that had belonged to someone else. We lacked a suitable donor. We waited for months. Every day, filled with hope and prayer, we heard from him. I received a phone call.

“While Kevin was alone in the hospital room, his parents were by his side every day, doing their best to keep Kevin well. He should have gone to the test with his pregnant wife.

“Instead, he was on a strict diet, including weight training, in preparation for the transplant. The entire community was hoping and praying. Everyone waiting for good news. And nothing.”

Kevin felt worse and worse while waiting for the call.

“As a family, we never talked about Kevin's death or life without him. Everyone was in complete shock as he passed by. We all knew he had a heart in his hand. I was sure I would get in.

“Right now, we are without brothers, sons, husbands, fathers, uncles, nephews, cousins ​​and friends.

Sarah with a photo of her brother Kevin.

“We are devastated by our loss, but we don't want other families to have to endure this pain. One donor can save seven lives. Don't think so. Tell them you want to donate your organs.

“Carry your donor card with you, download the app and notify your next of kin,” Sarah asks.

A new Irish bill called the Human Tissue Bill, signed into law by President Michael D. Higgins on February 28 this year, introduces an “opt-out register” for people who do not want to become donors, while still allowing donations to bereaved families. I will do it. The family has the final say.

Organ Donor Awareness Week 2024 will be held from April 20th to 27th and will be sponsored by Irish Kidney Association (IKA) In conjunction with the HSE's Organ Donation and Transplantation Ireland (ODTI).

The public is urged to discuss organ donation with their loved ones and make their wishes known in recognition of Organ Donor Awareness Week.

For donor cards, see . www.ika.ie/get-a-donor-card or call IKA on 01 6205306