Kieran's Story
In September 2020, Kieran began experiencing severe back pain. Due to the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was unable to get a face-to-face GP appointment, and was prescribed medication over the phone. A few days later, his pain worsened and he was prescribed more medication.
On September 9th 2020, Kieran was rushed to hospital by ambulance after his son found him unresponsive in bed. He had gone into septic shock and was critically ill. Doctors discovered the sepsis had stemmed from a horsefly bite. Kieran spent 6 weeks in the ICU Ward of CUH, 3 of which he was on a ventilator. After 6 weeks and 9 surgeries, Kieran was moved to the Trauma Ward in CUH where he stayed until February 2021.
Kieran was then transferred to the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dublin where he stayed for 5 months. When leaving Cork for Dublin, Kieran still had little or no use of his arms and legs. Kieran regained a lot of upper body strength during his time in the NRH, but was yet to regain movement in his legs. Kieran returned to the NRH in October 2021 to continue working on his mobility. The severity of the sepsis has left Kieran in a wheelchair with no mobility in his right leg, little movement in his left and no muscles working in his glutes.
Under the public system, Kieran can only see a physiotherapist once every 2 weeks. This is not enough, so Kieran began training privately in an aim to continue his recovery. Throughout the summer of 2021, Kieran spent 3-4 mornings a week in Elite Fitness Gym. Working with Colin O’ Shaughnessy, Kieran has continued to recover. However, he still has a long way to go.
Adjusting to his new way of living the costs incurred are very high. Kieran will require the long-term use of a wheelchair, but is determined to continue regaining mobility. While he currently lives under the care of the wonderful staff in Abode, he hopes to be able to live independently in the future. To achieve this goal and continue his recovery, Kieran needs regular physiotherapy and a powered wheelchair. Independent living requires many mobility supports, and long term medical expenses too.
Kieran Kramer and The Kieran Kramer Band were a well-known fixture in the Cork wedding band and music circuit long before September 2020. Down through the years, Kieran was involved in many fundraising events for charitable causes. Even following his ordeal, Kieran recently performed at a suicide awareness event organised by Cork Penny Dinners volunteer coordinator, Catríona Twomey. Now, Kieran needs our help.
