'This is a disgrace': Friend of Lee Reeves claims HSE 'failed' Limerick boxer
Former boxer Jonathan O’Brien shared an update in a post on social media
A FRIEND of popular Limerick boxer Lee Reeves has claimed that the HSE has “failed” him.
The much-loved 31-year-old has been in hospital in Dublin since he was knocked out in a fight in the 3Arena on Saturday, August 1.
Former boxer Jonathan O’Brien, who is a good friend of Lee’s and the Reeves’ family, shared an update in a post on social media this Wednesday morning, September 16.
Following a phone call with Lee’s family, Jonathan told his followers that Lee’s operation, which was scheduled to take place last Friday, has yet again been postponed.
Jonathan explained in a previous post that the operation will “put a plate back in Lee’s head where he had to get the skull removed to release the pressure from the brain from the trauma of the boxing”.
The family had been hoping that, following Friday’s postponement, the surgery would take place this week, but Jonathan has now stated that this will not be happening.
“This is a disgrace, the family are disgusted,” Jonathan said. “They are all in a bad way, every single one of them.”
“The quicker the better this happens for Lee, they can start getting him down and back to Limerick and get him back rehabilitating, getting his physio done,” he continued.
“This is just crazy news. The HSE have failed Lee Reeves time and time again.”
He asked his followers for help, explaining that the family are looking for go private for Lee to get the operation done, but that they were told they couldn’t.
“If this is correct,” he asked, “can someone tell us and help the family?”
Jonathan added that he and the family have been getting in touch with TDs and are looking for legal advice.
He continued: “This is not right. Lee should have this operation straight away. If you know somebody or something, get involved, reach out to us, please share this and get it out there. ”
“The HSE has let him down. They have failed Lee Reeves,” he concluded.
Commenters on the post have shared their sympathy, with one user saying: “Heart-breaking, unnecessary delays for whose benefit?? Not his family or Lee. Prayers winging their way to Lee and his family.”
Another commenter said: “Absolutely disgraceful @irishhealthservice shame on you. Utterly shameful.”
HSE has been contacted for comment.