‘Not the setting we imagined’, says Cork mum as girl, 8, wating on life-saving transplant has Communion in UK hospital
BRAVE Aoife Fleming is hoping her prayers for a new heart are answered – as she celebrated her First Communion in hospital.
Aoife, eight, from Cork has spent the last eight months in Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital in the UK, as she waits for a donor heart to become available.
The incredible girl celebrated an emotional milestone as she became the first person to receive Holy Communion in the Newcastle hospital chapel.
Aoife’s parents, Grainne and JJ, said the day was filled with love and gratitude despite the difficult circumstances.
Grainne said: “It’s not the setting we imagined for our little girl’s Communion day, but there was more love in that chapel than we could ever ask for.”
Aoife is supported by a Berlin Heart device, a mechanical device used to help children with severe heart failure survive while awaiting a donor organ.
To make her day extra special she was joined by her big sister Orlaith, who has largely remained at home in Ballydesmond being cared for by her Nana and extended family.
Aoife’s best pal Moira, and cousin Darragh, who made their own First Communion the previous week alongside Aoife’s classmates, also flew over for the special day.
Aoife’s mum and dad paid tribute to the hospital staff who helped make the day unforgettable for the little girl by transforming the chapel for the occasion with decorations, candles and Communion flowers.
Grainne added: “The nurses, doctors, play therapists and hospital staff have become like family to us.
“They went above and beyond to give her a special day and we will never forget their kindness.”
Despite the uncertainty that still lies ahead, the family said the Communion was a moment of joy and strength during an incredibly challenging chapter in their lives.
Grainne sad: “We are still waiting and praying every day for a donor heart.
“But for one day, we got to celebrate our brave little girl and make precious memories together.”
Aoife’s parents said they wanted to share their daughter’s story to raise awareness around organ donation and the life-changing impact it can have for families like theirs.
They sad: “We have been in the Freeman Hospital for eight months now waiting for that call,.
“You never think about organ donation until you need it, but for families like ours it means hope.
“We would encourage every parent to have that conversation and think about becoming organ donors.”
