The Dillon Quirke Foundation held a formal launch event in Dublin yesterday at Buswell’s Hotel. Niall Quinn, former Tipperary Minor Hurler and professional soccer player is the Chairperson of the Foundation. The foundation wants the Government to provide free cardiac screening for all young people and is calling on the national governing bodies of high-intensity sports to make screening mandatory for young competitors.
The foundation was set up in memory of the late Dillon Quirke from Clonoulty Rossmore, a Tipperary hurling star, who died on August 5th 2022 during a hurling match in Semple Stadium. He was 24. His cause of death was later recorded as sudden adult death syndrome (SADS).
Dillon Quirke’s family believe that a national screening programme could help to save lives. Dan Quirke spoke at yesterday’s event and highlights that 100 people die in Ireland each year due to the condition. The Foundation is partnering with Advanced Medical Services (AMS) to provide on-site medical services to screen at least 10,000 young people aged 12 to 18 this year, with an initial focus on those who play Gaelic games, soccer and rugby. To date the foundation has raised a total of €1.3M with support coming from all sectors of society. Fundraising is ongoing with a Tipperary Legends Golf Classic planned for Cahir Park Golf Club on April 19th.
The screening is a “simple process”, taking 25 minutes and involves a questionnaire on family history, an examination and a DCG heart test.
Full details of the Foundation’s Work can be found on the Foundation website at this link here.
