Mark thanks community for support following accident
Thanks were extended this week to all those who assisted Knockanore local Mark Dalton and his family after Mark and his twin brother Tom, along with three friends, were involved in a serious car accident in 2020.
Despite efforts of the first responders, paramedics, staff at Cork University Hospital and the Spinal Unit of the Mater Hospital, Mark was left with major trauma to his spine.
In response to the incident, friends of the Waterford minor hurler set up a GoFundMe page with the aim of assisting Mark on his journey and ensuring his essential needs are met and that his family are comforted in these challenging times.
May 2021 saw Mark arrive home in time to celebrate his 18th birthday with his parents and brother Tom. The transition was one that his family said ‘came with relative ease’ as the home was fully equipped for his needs by this point, works which were helped by the funds raised.
Several local groups, clubs and organisations also got on board at the time in the hopes of helping ease the journey for Mark and his family including Ballysaggart GAA Club, Ballyduff Upper GAA, Tallow hurling players and more besides, donating to the cause which saw over 6,700 donations made online.
SINCERE THANKS
Mark and his family this week issued a thank you message to all those who played a role in his recovery.
“Thank you to all the emergency services, doctors and staff at Cork University Hospital, Mater Private, Dublin and the National Rehabilitation Centre, Dun Laoghaire. To Mark’s doctor, Dr Mark Buckley at Killeagh Medical and everyone who is currently involved in Mark’s recovery.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to the GoFundMe page, and other fundraising events and private donations, the proceeds of which have helped provide Mark with the home that is suitable for his needs. Your response was both overwhelming and humbling to us as a family,” the message read.
A special word of thanks was extended to all the tradesmen who gave their time free of charge and who worked tirelessly for 14 weeks to ensure the house was ready for Mark on his return home.
Pobalscoil na Trionoide in Youghal, where Mark was a 5th-year student at the time of the accident, was also thanked for their help and support and especially for the ‘Walk for Mark’ proceeds, which were kindly donated to the fund.
Shamrocks GAA Club, Waterford County Board and all the clubs throughout the county and country and beyond who supported Mark were also acknowledged.
“Mark received countless jerseys and letters of goodwill from players and clubs,” the statement read. “To our family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues & the whole community, we thank you for everything you have done for us. Mark is doing well and has made wonderful progress and continues to be an inspiration to everyone he meets along the way. Thank you,” the message added.