A nine-year-old boy who inspired changes to Northern Ireland's organ donation laws has left hospital after receiving a heart transplant after an eight-year wait. Dáithí Mac Gabhann, who was born in 2016 with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, received the transplant in July at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne.
What happened after the transplant?
On social media, the family said Dáithí left today with
the greatest gift of all - the gift of life, the gift of a new heart. The family also said they are
beyond gratefulto the donor.
The operation was carried out at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne. Two weeks later, Dáithí walked out of Ward 23 to the sounds of Eye of the Tiger and claps from hospital staff.
There are actually no words to express our gratitude
His father Máirtín Mac Gabhann had said the experience had been a rollercoaster of a few weeks
but luckily for us, our Dáithí loves a good rollercoaster.
How long will he stay in Newcastle?
Dáithí will stay in Newcastle for another three weeks before returning home.
Why is his story significant?
Dáithí's parents, Máirtín and Seph Mac Gabhann, have campaigned for years on the issue and to get their son a heart. Their campaigning brought about Dáithí's law in June 2023, which means most adults in Northern Ireland will be considered potential organ donors unless they opt out.
What condition was he born with?
Dáithí was born in 2016 with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, meaning the left side of his heart did not form correctly. He had waited eight years for a heart transplant before receiving the operation in July.
Key Facts
- Dáithí Mac Gabhann received a heart transplant in July at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne.
- He was born in 2016 with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
- His family said he left hospital today with
the greatest gift of all - the gift of life, the gift of a new heart
. - Dáithí's law came into effect in June 2023.
- He will remain in Newcastle for another three weeks before returning home.
