Popular Limerick handball coach blinded in freak accident as fundraiser set up

A POPULAR Limerick handball coach is continuing his recovery at home after he was blinded in one eye in a freak accident.

Pat Murphy, Broadford, was coaching junior and senior infants in Bohermore National School last week when he was struck by an errant handball.

Due to the amount of messages he was getting, Pat took to Facebook to say he had a completely random accident last Friday morning, January 9, involving a four-year-old and a stray handball that “just met me wrong”.  

“Unluckily the eyeball popped. Thankfully, surgery closed up the opening and stopped any more leakage. The sight is gone and if the next few days go well and infection doesn't set in I'll be able to keep the eye inside. Fingers crossed,” said Pat, who is secretary of the County Handball Committee.

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In a further post, the west Limerick man thanked the school principal who “had me in hospital straight away”.

“The surgeon told me within 10 minutes that the eyesight was gone and the priority was to try to seal up and save the globe.

"In fairness they kept their word. Fingers crossed, every day that passes, the risk of infection, and the chance of having to remove the eye decreases,” said Pat, who has a very positive attitude despite the freak misfortune.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by his good friend Patrick Frawley. 

“Pat is someone who has given so much to others over the years. Through his involvement in coaching and the local handball community, he has supported and encouraged people of all ages, always doing so without looking for recognition,” said Patrick.

He added that following his injury, Pat’s focus now is on recovery and rehabilitation, and the coming months will be an important part of that journey.

“Pat was injured while coaching - something he has always been deeply committed to - and this fundraiser is a way for us, as a community, to give something back to someone who has given so much to others.

“All funds raised will go directly to Pat to help with medical and rehabilitation costs, and to support him during his recovery.”

Patrick concluded by saying any contribution, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated. 

“If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would also mean a great deal. Thank you for your kindness and for supporting Pat and his family at this time.”

To donate to the GoFundMe set up for Pat Murphy please click here