Limerick charity warns of major hidden family struggles

“FAMILIES with seriously sick children are living in a constant state of anxiety, uncertainty, and exhaustion, often unseen and rarely highlighted.”

These are the words of Limerick charity Cliona's Foundation in their latest Impact Report which details that 52% of families were forced to borrow from friends and families to meet additional costs with almost 20% of families accessing loans from financial institutions as a result.

Survey findings highlight that costs far outstrip any, if available, support from the state, and that many families are being forced into further debt to bridge the gap. Incurring additional debt creates a further layer of anxiety for families already struggling to come to terms with their new reality.

Over the course of 2024, the charity successfully disbursed €540,000 to over 216 families. Respondents have highlighted improvements in mental health, in their happiness levels, and in their ability to cope.

READ MORE: A 'moment of reflection and community': Families invited to remember loved ones at UHL service

One family surveyed spoke of the relief the financial support Cliona’s provided to them, saying: “We dropped half our income due to Lily’s illness. It gives huge relief from the financial worry. It gives a cushion for unforeseen costs that can’t be deferred, for example our car has just gone in for repairs after a breakdown at the weekend. It means life continuing as normal as possible and being able to afford to be at home with Lily.”

Since 2018, Cliona's Foundation have been calling on the government to establish a grant system that would recognise the particular challenges that come with looking after a seriously ill child. They outlined a pathway to Government support in their 2025 Pre-Budget Submission.

Cliona’s Foundation CEO, Brendan Ring said: “Through this Impact report we aim to raise awareness of the often unseen challenges facing the entire family unit during a child’s illness and to appeal for more support to help us on our mission to do more for them.”