Oisín's Campaign

Empowering Sports Clubs to Support Blood Donation

Oisín Kelly was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 2021, and after a lengthy battle, he sadly passed in August 2023. Throughout his illness Oisín received many blood and platelet transfusions, and he and his family learned that many cancer patients require blood and platelet transfusions as part of their treatment – this was a vital part of the treatment for Oisín.

It was because of this that Oisín wanted to do all that he could to raise awareness of the importance of giving blood. He wanted to get the message out there, especially to young people like him, that giving blood is vital.

Oisín loved sport and was hugely involved in his local GAA club, Naomh Eoin in Carlow. Even after his diagnosis he spent lots of time at the club and with his friends and team mates. He put a huge amount of effort into campaigning for blood donations, hoping his story would encourage more people, especially younger people to become blood donors.

Why is blood so important?

• 67 % of donated blood is used to treat cancer patients and people with blood disorders.
• 27% of donated blood is used in surgery and emergency situations.
• 6% of donated blood is used to treat blood loss after child birth and to help premature babies.
• 100% of all donated blood is precious and saves lives everyday.

Carlow GAA are honoured to continue to promote Oisín's message