When Iarla Thompson was born in February 2013, he was critically ill and was diagnosed with congenital heart defects. Iarla was then transferred to the Paediatric ICU in Childrens Health Ireland at Crumlin where he was placed under the care of Professor Mark Redmond, Cardiothoracic Surgeon.

At just over two weeks old, Iarla had to have life saving open-heart surgery. It was without doubt, the most emotionally charged day of our lives and one that we will never forget. Thankfully, the surgery was hugely successful and we were all so well cared for, not just Iarla.

No matter what the hour of the day or night, there is always a support network to comfort you in the most challenging of times. That support and kindness of all the staff who work in Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin is beyond words.