ULSTER and Ireland rugby star Brittany Hogan has launched a fundraising campaign for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, in memory of her late dad who sadly passed away in June 2023.
Eamonn Hogan, aged just 43, tragically lost his life after a wasp sting triggered a severe allergic reaction while he was driving his youngest daughter, Alex, home from school.
At the time, Brittany, along with her entire family, expressed their sincere gratitude to the Air Ambulance NI charity for their valiant efforts in responding to the emergency. The Air Ambulance NI charity provides vital helicopter emergency medical services across Northern Ireland, saving countless lives every year.
A year on, in Kilcoo man Eamonn’s memory, back row player Brittany has bravely launched a fundraising initiative to support Air Ambulance NI. This cause is particularly close to her heart, and the entire Ulster Rugby team stands firmly behind her.
Brittany explained: “On the 13 June last year (2023) my dad Eamonn Hogan was stung by a wasp and unbeknown to him, had a severe allergy which caused him to go into anaphylactic shock.
“He died two days later in hospital.
“One of the toughest years without you dad but I am deciding to commemorate you and be grateful for the opportunity to say goodbye by creating a fundraiser for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.”
Following his collapse, Eamonn’s youngest daughter, Alexandra, alerted emergency services, while bystanders gave him CPR before Northern Ireland Air Ambulance arrived.
Brittany added: “Without my sister Alex, by standers, and this wonderful charity, we wouldn’t have had that chance.
“So to honour you dad, we would like to help give the opportunity for others to receive the same critical care.”
Ulster Rugby is urging all rugby fans and the wider community to join them in supporting Brittany’s fundraising efforts.
To donate to Brittany’s fundraising page, please visit here.
Supporting the initiative, Ulster Rugby stated: “Together, we can honour Eamonn’s memory and ensure the Air Ambulance NI charity has the resources it needs to keep our communities safe. Every donation, big or small, will make a real difference in helping Air Ambulance NI continue their life saving work.
“By sharing this story and Brittany’s fundraising initiative, we hope to raise awareness about the importance of Air Ambulance NI and the crucial role they play in saving lives. Brittany and her family would also like to highlight the importance of carrying an epi-pen if you have any known allergies.”
A young Brittany with her dad and (below) family pic in happier times
