Just before Christmas we were delighted to welcome Angela and Michael Beary to the NRH.
Their daughter Aoife Beary (RIP) spent time as a patient in the National Rehabilitation University Hospital (NRH) for adults and children, following her return from the US after suffering catastrophic life changing injuries as a result of a balcony collapse in Berkeley, California on 15th June 2015 that tragically killed 6 of her friends.
Aoife was a very strong, courageous, and determined young lady, who despite her injuries, went on to further her education at a UK University. Aoife also very bravely went back to the US in 2016 to meet and thank all those who aided her and her family the previous year. While there Aoife also testified before California state lawmakers during a hearing on the introduction of a new Senate Bill 1465 requiring mandatory building inspections, and greater transparency of construction defect settlements by contractors with poor records – the new bill was passed later that year.
Sadly, on New Years Day 2022, at only 27 years of age, Aoife died as a result of the injuries she sustained in California. Following the tragic event in 2015 a Trust Fund was set up to support Aoife with her ongoing medical and rehabilitation needs. Significant funds were raised thanks to the generosity and efforts of friends, neighbours, schools, clubs, and the wider community.
Aoife had discussed with the Trustees that if the Trust Fund was wound up, it was her preference that the money would be used to support others, including patients of the NRH as they travel their rehabilitation journeys. As a result, the Trustees agreed to the donation of €69,000 to the NRH. Michael and Angela very kindly came into the NRH for a cheque presentation event, enabling us to try and express in some small way, our sincere gratitude for this phenomenal gift from Aoife.
We are truly honoured and so grateful to have received this amazing donation for the benefit of the patients of the NRH, to assist them in their rehabilitation journeys and needs. Aoife Beary’s legacy will continue to live on in the NRH thanks to her phenomenal gift to the Hospital