By Ciaran O’Neill
coneill@derrynews.net
A talented young footballer from Derry has had to have a leg amputated following a freak accident.
Gareth McCay sustained serious injuries after falling down stairs at his home several weeks ago.
As a result, he had to have one of his legs amputated.
The 27 year-old, who played for Abercorn in the Saturday morning and D&D leagues, is currently undergoing treatment in a Belfast hospital.
In a bid to help with his rehabilitation, Gareth’s friends and family have launched a major fundraising initiative.
In the first of a series of events, around 300 people took part in a run/walk along the River Foyle walkway last Thursday evening.
The runners teamed up with Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw from Mullingar who were in Derry on Thursday as part of their campaign to run 32 consecutive marathons in every Irish county.
The fundraising event in Derry raised an amazing £9,000 which will be shared between Gareth’s rehabilitation fund and Autism NI.
Ronan Kelly, a friend of Gareth’s and one of the main organisers of the fundraising initiative, said they were delighted with the response.
“There was a great turnout and there must have been up to 300 people there.
“We managed to raise around £9,000 which was a fantastic amount and on behalf of the organisers and Gareth’s mother, Alannah, his girlfriend, Colleen, and his daughter, Annie, we would like to thank everyone who took part.
“The turnout just goes to show how popular Gareth is and how much people want to help him.”