Father fighting for his life after a ‘freak lawnmower accident’

A FATHER-OF-THREE is in a critical condition after a ‘freak lawnmower accident’ at his home nearly two weeks ago.

Gerard Curtin, from Brosna, in northeast Kerry is fighting for his life in Cork University Hospital after the accident with a ride-on lawnmower.

Father Martin Spillane said that the whole community was ‘very shocked’ because Mr Curtin, who is in his 50s, was a ‘very fit man’, running his own farm alongside a job in the water industry.

Fr Spillane said: ‘He did a lot of voluntary work in the community so we were all very upset because he was known by a lot of people. He is a very good volunteer, involved with the local GAA, a good neighbour and an extremely helpful person. We are all waiting for good news hopefully but it is going to be a long haul either way so we will keep him in our prayers.’

Last Friday Fr Spillane held a special Mass at St Carthage’s Church in Brosna, with prayers for Mr Curtin, his wife Mairéad and the rest of the family.

He said during Mass: ‘We come here tonight because our hearts are struggling with Ger being so sick, and we put ourselves in God’s care that we will do the right thing to help, to love, to strengthen, and foster that sense of being in this together.’

There has been an outpouring of support from members of the community on social media wishing Mr Curtin a speedy recovery. One person wrote: ‘Thoughts and prayers with Gerard, Mairéad and family at this difficult time.’

Another wellwisher added: ‘Thinking of you all in these worrying times, having a Mass said for Gerard here.’

Gardaí have launched an investigation on the incident which occurred on April 29 at approximately 1pm.

A spokesman said: ‘Gardaí are investigating an incident that occurred at Knockane, Brosna, County Kerry at approximately 1pm on Friday, April 29, 2022. A man in his 50s was injured during the course of the incident and was taken to Cork University Hospital for treatment. Investigations are ongoing.’