Opening of new family room celebrates the life of Liam Ryan

THE official opening of a new family room in Tallaght University Hospital celebrates the life and remarkable fundraising efforts of a patient who passed away in 2020.

A comfortable and private family space has been created in the hospital thanks to the generosity of the late Liam Ryan and his family who, with the support of businesses and community, raised almost €18,000 for the project.

The money was raised to enhance the hospital’s patient and family experience and has resulted in the opening of a family room on the Maguire Ward, a general ward with a dedicated corridor for haematology and oncology patients.

From Kildare, Liam was a patient on the Maguire Ward and had been actively fundraising to create a family room before sadly passing away in April 2020, aged 42.

According to the Tallaght University Hospital Foundation, Liam’s “remarkable fundraising efforts have now materialised into a lasting legacy that will positively impact countless families who pass through the Maguire Ward”.

Thanks to the generous donation, the ward was also able to acquire a bladder scanner, enhancing the medical capabilities and improving patient care.

Sandra Mc Carthy, Director of Nursing and Integrated Care, and Paula Ryan, Assistant Director of Nursing, Medical Directorate, with the new bladder scanner also purchased with the family’s donation

Liam’s fundraising achievement and enduring legacy was celebrated on May 17, when the family room was officially opened.

Liam’s mother Eileen and brothers Kieran and Glenn, the Kildare Senior Football Manager, visited Tallaght for the opening – and to help unveil a plaque in his memory.

The Ryan family said: “We are incredibly proud of Liam and the lasting impact he has made on Tallaght University Hospital.

“Liam believed in the power of compassion and support for patients and their families.

“We are immensely proud of his achievements and the positive change he has brought to the Maguire Ward.

“Liam’s legacy will forever resonate within these walls, and we are grateful to everyone who supported him along this journey.”

Liam’s mother Eileen and brothers Glenn and Kieran

The new room will provide respite and solace for families, providing them with a space to relax, during their loved one’s stay in hospital.

It will also provide a space for families to receive sensitive news or meet with healthcare professionals.

Lucy Nugent, the CEO of Tallaght University Hospital, expressed gratitude for Liam’s contribution.

“We are immensely grateful to Liam Ryan for his unwavering commitment and determination in raising funds for the Family Room on Maguire Ward,” Ms Nugent said.

“His dedication to improving the lives of patients and their families is truly commendable.

“This new space will provide comfort, solace, and privacy for families during difficult times, fostering a sense of support and togetherness.”

Liam, who is remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend, was a member of Round Towers in Kildare town.

The club was among many in the town locality to support the project, including those who took part in the TP Waters Ambition Run.