Dublin assault victim Alex Coughlan’s final act of kindness saves lives through organ donation
The grieving family of a man who died following an alleged assault and robbery in Dublin have revealed that his organs were donated ‘to help others in need’ describing it as a final act that reflected his caring and selfless nature.Alex Coughlan (37) died on Wednesday, three days after he suffered serious injuries in an attack near his home on Mill Road in Blanchardstown.Mr Coughlan was assaulted at approximately 4.15pm on Sunday, May 17. He suffered serious injuries in the attack near his home and was treated at Connolly Memorial Hospital in Blanchardstown where he tragically passed away on Wednesday.Paying tribute on a GoFundMe page launched to help with the funeral costs, Aoife Lawless, a representative of the family, said Alex had "touched so many lives" and remembered him as a deeply caring person.Sign up to our new Crime Ireland newsletter and get exclusive content from Michael O'Toole and Paul HealyThe Irish Mirror's Crime Writers Michael O'Toole and Paul Healy are writing a new weekly newsletter called Crime Ireland. Click here to sign up and get it delivered to your inbox every week"Alex was truly loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," Aoife wrote on behalf of the Coughlan family."His kindness, warmth and presence touched so many lives, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him."In an incredible final act of kindness and generosity, Alex’s organs have been donated to help others in need - a lasting gift that reflects the caring and selfless person he was."During this incredibly difficult time, Alex’s family would like to sincerely thank all the staff involved in his care at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown for their compassion, support, and kindness."They would also like to thank all family and friends who have been there for them with messages, visits, prayers and support over the past days."As the family prepares for the difficult weeks ahead and the upcoming funeral and related expenses, any donation, no matter how small, would be greatly appreciated and will help ease some of the financial burden during this heartbreaking time."Most importantly, the family asks that Alex be remembered for the wonderful person he was and the love and laughter he brought to so many."So far nearly €15,000 has been donated by 270 donors.Two teenage boys were arrested as part of the investigation and appeared in court on Wednesday. They were charged in relation to the assault and robbery.The teenagers were remanded in custody to appear in court again next week.To donate, click here.Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
