Mum and newborn recovering
A Cork mum and her newborn baby are recovering well after being hit by a car last year, but they still need a little help on their journey.
On 21 October, new mum Gigi and her seven week old baby boy Matthew were struck by a car while walking on the footpath in Blarney.
Gigi suffered tibia and fibula shaft fractures in her right leg, while initial scans on Matthew showed minor brain damage, raising concerns about possible brain bleeding.
Thankfully, this resolved without the need for neurosurgical intervention.
Gigi and Matthew were separated for nine days following the incident.
Gig said: “Those days were filled with fear, uncertainty, and overwhelming pain, both physical and emotional.
“For weeks, we lived with the fear that his development might be affected, watching him closely and praying for every sign of normal progress. The emotional toll of seeing my newborn in a hospital bed, unable to hold him, comfort him, or even be beside him, is something I will carry forever.
“What should have been a peaceful postpartum walk became a traumatic and life‑altering event.”
Due to her injuries, Gigi is unable to work, move freely, or independently care for Matthew. To heal properly and regain independence, she needs consistent care and therapy until at least the end of June. She also uses a wheelchair and must rent essential medical equipment to safely recover at home.
To help with this, a GoFundMe page has been set up with a target of €8,000. Money raised will go directly towards 18 weeks of physical rehabilitation, emotional and psychological recovery, and essential home care.
Gigi explained: “As a first time mother trying to rebuild stability after a traumatic event, I am asking for help so I can continue healing without falling into financial hardship.”
In a recent update to her GoFundMe page, Gigi shared she is now moving around with the help of crutches and is making good progress, though her right leg remains very weak.
She said: “These steps may seem small for me at the beginning, but now I can say they are huge. Your support reminds me every day that community is powerful, and that we’re not walking this road alone.”
Gig added: “We’re now in the final stretch. If you’re able to help us reach 100%, whether by donating or simply sharing the link with someone who might be able to support, it would mean the world to us. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in our recovery, and for helping us rebuild our lives with dignity and hope,” she concluded.
Gigi’s GoFundMe page currently stands at just under €7,000. To help her and Matthew reach their goal of €8,000, visit gofundme.com and look for 'Help Gigi & her baby recovery after being struck by a car'.