Brave Dáithí inspires runners in west Belfast 10k race to raise awareness for organ donation

THE plight of a west Belfast toddler on the waiting list for a new heart has inspired hundreds of people to take part in a running event to raise awareness for organ donation.

More than 400 participants from across Ireland yesterday took to the streets of west Belfast for the Gaeltacht Quarter 10km run.

Many of those taking part said they were running to raise awareness for organ donation after being moved by the story of Dáithí Mac Gabhann, who was born with rare hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

The two-year-old has already undergone three rounds of major surgery at four days, 10 days and four months old and is awaiting a transplant.

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Along with his parents Máirtín Mac Gabhann and Seph Ní Mhealláin, the family have already convinced hundreds of people across Northern Ireland to sign the Organ and Tissue Donor register.

Dáithí’s father, Máirtín Mac Gabhann, said they were "absolutely delighted" by the number of runners who took part in the race.

"The way in which the community has stood by us during the past few years has been extremely uplifting and comforting," he said.

"As a result of that support and solidarity, we and especially Dáithí have been able to raise so much awareness about the importance of organ donation.

"Hundreds of people, waiting on organ donations, will benefit from this campaign and that is huge lift for all of us."

The event, which started at An Chultúrlann before travelling past the Gaeltacht area of the Shaws Road and making its way through Andersontown, was won by Ed McGinley.

Maria Morris from Belfast, the third female across the line, said: "It was challenging, particularly at the beginning with the ascent up the Glen Road but the craic and support along the way really helped.

"Not only that but of course Dáithí is a huge source of inspiration for us all.

"Today I ran in memory of my brother, Dermot Morris, who we lost in a road accident seven years ago today.

"He was on the donor list and any opportunity we have to support the important campaign Daithí is spearheading will receive huge support."