East Meath community rallies round ill girl"s family

A local election candidate has had his flowing locks shorn in a bid to raise funds for the treatment of a Julianstown girl, who is suffering from a rare life-threatening illness. James Carey, an independent candidate for Meath County Council in the Slane Electoral Area, was involved in a public head-shaving event at Whyte"s of Stamullen last Saturday. Up to €6,000 was raised towards the cost of helping local girl Megan Cooney (10) get desperately needed treatment in London. Megan was diagnosed with an almost unique form of illness which affects the functions of her liver. It is believed there are only two other similar cases in the world. The fundraiser was organised by members of the girl"s community who have united an rallied around her and her family. Mr Carey said the amount raised showed clearly that, despite recessionary woes or cutbacks, the people of the community were generous, supportive and giving, particularly during a crisis. 'Megan"s condition can now be addressed without the subject of money even being raised,' he said. Megan, who is in fifth class in Whitecross National School in Julianstown, was struck down by the mystery virus some weeks ago. Since the illness struck, the east Meath community has rallied around Megan"s family, dad Stephen, mother Tina, and brother Sazh (5). A coffee morning held in the Julianstown parish rooms raised €7,500 to help cover medical and travel expenses. Megan was first treated at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda and later at Our Lady"s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin, Dublin. London specialists have diagnosed her illness as human herpes virus siz. When Megan"s liver failed last month, she was transferred to King"s College Hospital in the English capital.