Dec 13,2024
Two years after Tipperary hurler Dillon Quirke died from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), a foundation set up in his memory has provided cardiac screenings to 10,128 people.
The foundation surpassed its goal of screening 5,000 young hearts in 2024 by more than double.
The screenings were conducted in partnership with 275 sports clubs across every county in Ireland, including GAA, soccer, rugby, boxing and performing arts clubs.
Mr Quirke was 24 years old when he collapsed and died on 5 August 2022 in Semple Stadium, Thurles, while captaining his club, Clonoulty-Rossmore, in a championship match against Kilruane McDonaghs.
The Dillon Quirke Foundation was set up in honour of him and also to raise awareness around SADS.
The foundation said in a statement that among those who were assessed, 243 people have been advised to undergo follow-up cardiology tests post-screening.
It said it has ambitious plans for 2025 with a focus on raising vital funds to allow them to continue screening young athletes as well as continuing its call to make screening mandatory for young people involved in sport.
The late hurler's father, Dan Quirke, said they were incredibly proud to reach the milestone.
"At the start of 2024, the foundation ambitiously set a goal of screening 5,000 individuals within the year.
"We are delighted to have surpassed this target by more than double.
"We know these screenings are helping to save lives. They can detect cardiac abnormalities and those affected can receive appropriate medical treatment and support at an early stage."
Mr Quirke said that the "whole purpose" of the foundation was to reduce the number of young people dying from SADS in Ireland and thanked supporters around the country.
"We want no family to go through the heartbreak we have experienced," he said.
