Saoirse was born on 29 January 2015 after a normal delivery and was a healthy baby. In late February 2016, she became unwell with a kidney infection that led to hospitalisation and later progressed to pyelonephritis. Because her father has Alport syndrome, a hereditary kidney condition, Saoirse was placed under the care of a paediatrician and later referred to Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street. In 2018, a kidney biopsy confirmed that Saoirse also had Alport syndrome, and she continued to attend regular clinics.

From then on, her care focused on preserving kidney function. Over time, clinic visits became more frequent, and by June 2024 it was no longer possible to manage without dialysis. Following a routine clinic visit, Saoirse was admitted to hospital, had a peritoneal dialysis catheter inserted, and began dialysis shortly afterwards. In May 2025, she became very sick and was admitted again for around ten weeks, during which she transitioned from peritoneal dialysis to haemodialysis. Since then, she has been travelling from County Clare to Temple Street three days a week for treatment.

During her time in hospital, Saoirse was supported by staff on the ward and in the haemodialysis unit, who created an environment filled with fun, talk and activities. Play specialists, nurses and the wider team ensured she always had things to look forward to. Saoirse is now on the deceased donor transplant list, and her family is waiting for the call that will change everything.