The family and friends of Bobby Messett, who was tragically killed in Bray in June 2018, have successfully raised desperately-needed funds for a new aEEG machine for the National Maternity Hospital.
Turning an unthinkable tragedy into something positive is by no means an easy task, but the hard work done by the family and friends of Bobby Messett has created hope for those that need it.
Last summer, a group of determined women took part in the Camino de Santiago in order to raise money to buy a new aEEG (Amplitude-integrated electroencephalography) machine for the National Maternity Hospital – a cause that was very close to Bobby’s heart, and one he was planning to undertake himself.
The Camino de Santiago is a long hike through the Spanish countryside that sees pilgrims walk roughly 25-30 miles per day in order to reach their destination. Some walk for a few days, some walk for a week, but everyone who participates is pushed to their limits under the hot Spanish sun.
After months of preparation, the group consisting of Jackie Messett, Demi Leigh Messett, Natalie Armstrong, Laurna Nolan, Hayley Thomas, and Paula Thomas set off for the long and gruelling pilgrimage.
Having used the Camino as an opportunity to raise money for the life-saving equipment at the NMH Foundation, and complete a quest that the hugely popular Bobby had wanted to complete himself, the women last night handed over a cheque to the NMH for a whopping €33, 567.85
This money has been used to purchase an aEEG machine that has already been used to monitor the condition of infants in intensive care.
“We weren’t expecting the reception we got in holles street from all the midwives and doctors,” said Hayley Thomas.
“Its so heart warming to know the aEEG machine is already being used to help premature and poorly babies.”
If you would like to make a donation to the NMH Foundation, or learn about all of the great work they do, please visit nmh.ie.
