By Irishexaminer.com,Larry Ryan

Copyright irishexaminer

Tim was counted among the county’s brightest hurling prospects when his life was reshaped utterly by a car crash in 2010, when he was just 18. Tim was paralysed from the neck down and faced an arduous battle just to regain any independence, his sporting ambitions shattered.

Tim faced that challenge with stoicism and good humour and with the support of his parents was able to live at home for the next decade.

However, the death of both of Tim’s parents in recent years proved further cruel blows, as did several health setbacks of his own, including infection and worsening scoliosis.

For more than a year, Tim became a permanent resident of Kerry University Hospital and in June was transferred to Clarinbridge Care Centre in Co. Galway.

All the while, his sister Emily and her husband David stepped in as Tim’s next of kin and began advocating on his behalf. They even retrained in healthcare. But as they worked to bring Tim home, found mounting logistical challenges and spiralling costs.

It is Tim’s long journey back home to Kilmoyley that has stirred the hurling community into action.

Kilmoyley and Kerry stalwart Shane Brick is among those driving the ‘Hurling for Tim’ fund. While Anthony Daly, who managed the Kilmoyley club to two Kerry senior titles, is gathering a Dalo’ Stars selection to play the match in Páirc Naomh Erc, Kilmoyley next month.

“Tim was a great prospect,” Dalo said. “He was a star minor in those years when I was down there and scored the winning goal in ’09 minor final. It’s desperately sad what he has had to go through, but he is a fighter and deserves our support.

“We’ll get a good few star names down and have a good day out. And it will be great if people can dig into the pockets as best they can and give generously. The hurling community is great for pulling together at times like this.”

All-Ireland winning Tipperary manager Liam Cahill is among those who have asked hurling people to back “a truly remarkable individual”.

“Tim faces huge challenges on a daily basis. Those of us in the GAA community can really support one of our own. And there is a real job of work lying ahead for him and his family.”

David Clifford has also given the fund his backing. While former Kilmoyley, Kerry and Cork manager John Meyler will bring another star selection to take on Dalo’s pick.

“After a life-changing event and the loss of his parents, who were his main carers, Tim needs our help,” Meyler says.

“Tim is facing significant medical expenses and rehabilitation costs. Your support can make a real difference in Tim’s life. Every donation brings Tim closer to that journey home and independence.

“Together we can bring hope and encouragement to Tim and his sister Emily and her husband David who are caring for Tim.”

As Hurling for Tim organiser Sean Dowling puts it, “despite all the hardship, Tim is looking forward to finally being back on home turf, surrounded by his family and close to his childhood friends, after being moved from pillar to post over the last three years.

“Above all, he deserves the peace of mind of knowing that he will never be uprooted again and that he is safe, secure, and at home.”

Meyler’s Legends will play Dalo’s Stars in Páirc Naomh Erc, Kilmoyley, Kerry on October 25th. The showpiece game at 3pm will be preceded by a Masters game at 2pm and an underage match at 1pm. Gates open at noon.

Tickets are €10 with more info to come. Or you can donate now at www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/HurlingforTim