Fundraising concert at St Mary's Cathedral in aid of Kilkenny teenager
The concert which features The Frederick Chorale takes place on June 24
An American Chorale group will join forces with a number of talented local musicans in a very special fundraising concert at St Mary’s Cathedral later this month.
The Frederick Chorale from Maryland in the US will perform at St Mary’s Cathedral in Kilkenny City at 7.30pm on June 24 along with the Unity Singers and the male voice group, Sospiro.
Talented uileann piper, Liam Costello and violinist, Megan Dermody will also perform on the night in what promises to be an incredible evening of live music.
The event is being organised to fundraise for Kilkenny teenager, Maria Hogan, who travelled abroad earlier this year and underwent surgery to treat serious abdominal vascular compressions that severely reduce blood flow to major organs.Maria had one of her first major surgeries in February, which successfully relieved the compression that was preventing her from eating and drinking.
Maria’s father, Damien explained that while this is a significant step forward, her stomach is not yet functioning properly due to the prolonged period of strain on her body.
"Doctors are hopeful that, over time, her digestive function and autonomic nervous system will begin to recover but this could take several months or longer. In the meantime, Maria requires highly specialised care to support her recovery. Unfortunately, this expertise is not available in Ireland, so we have had to seek treatment internationally to ensure she receives the best possible care.
“We made the decision to go to one of the leading specialists in the world for her condition and we are confident we have taken the most responsible and informed steps for her treatment. We are also incredibly grateful to have a consultant in Switzerland who is now supporting us and guiding the next phase of Maria’s care,” said Damien, who added that the costs associated with Maria’s treatment are ‘relentless’.
"This journey has been long, and the costs are relentless. To everyone who has followed Maria’s story, supported us and contributed in any way, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness, generosity and encouragement have carried us through the hardest moments.”
Tickets for the concert are €10 and are available on the door on the night. To donate go to www.gofundme.com/f/help-maria-hogan-fund-her-surgery