A local community is rallying behind a girl who lost both of her legs in a farming accident just days before he 13th birthday. Féile O’Sullivan, from West Cork, Ireland, had to have both of her legs amputated after sustaining an injury in her lower abdomen. She was treated at Cork University Hospital as medics spent days trying to stabilise her.

Féile has since been moved to Dublin to undergo her rehabilitation process. 

Local Councillor Finbarr Harrington told CorkBeo: “Féile is an incredibly strong girl, in every way. She might not have made it without that strength, and she has faced everything and is still fighting, she is just incredible.

“She has already undergone around 15 surgeries. It’s incredibly difficult for Feile and for her mother Maureen and everybody in the community here wants to support them and let them know they will be there for them now and in the years to come.”

The councillor is also helping to organise a fundraising effort for the young girl. A page was set up after the accident back in July.

Cllr Harrington added: “If you look at who is involved, it is just about every group and every organisation from Beara, Féile played football with Garnish GAA and Beara Ladies, her mother played for her club and for Cork, there’s the GAA, there’s the local soccer club, Beara United, nationally, we will have Macra na Feirme and the Men’s Shed movement getting involved.

“This is just the start of it. Féile is going to need her house altered for when she comes home, the family will need an adapted car, she will need support for the rest of her life and everybody here, the whole community, wants the family to know they will get that.

“Her whole life changed in a split second. But she will have the support of the people here for the rest of her life. That is what we are all working for together, now.”

The GoFundMe page for Féile is aiming to raise 350,000 euros and has so far amassed over 200,000 euros in donations.

The page adds: “Support Féile’s Journey – just before her 13th birthday, our amazing Féile was in a serious farm accident, changing her life in ways no child should ever have to face. She is currently hospitalised in critical condition, showing great strength and bravery.”

The appeal adds: “Anyone lucky enough to know Féile will tell you how full of life, energy, fun, kindness and what a pure messer she is. She adores dogs and horses.

“Farming is in her blood, and she loves everything about nature, outdoors, staying active – She’s also a true sports star – whether football, soccer, gymnastics, or anything involving movement and fun, Féile is always giving it her all, with a smile and a sparkle in her eyes. This accident hasn’t changed who she is, but has just changed what she now needs.

“The road ahead will be lengthy and demanding. Féile has undergone extensive surgeries and fought hard to still be with us. She will face many more surgeries to aid her.

“She will need intensive care for months, followed by rigorous rehabilitation, and a total adjustment to a new lifestyle. Beyond the emotional and physical strain, there are significant financial burdens – hospital stays, specialist care, physiotherapy, emotional support, mobility aids, prosthetic limbs, home modifications, and much more we haven’t considered yet.

“Her entire family is devastated. Her wonderful community too, resolved to remain resilient and support Féile. The emotional and financial burden is immense. That’s why we’re reaching out – to ask you to back our remarkable girl during her toughest times.

“Every contribution – large or small – will go directly towards Féile’s care – medical treatment, specialist equipment, home adaptations, all the support she’ll require now and in the future. Even a supportive message or sharing this page can mean the world.

“Féile is a true fighter. Let’s envelop her with love and strength, so she can navigate this incredibly challenging journey. Let’s show her just how many people are behind her, cheering her on every step of the way.”