A 25-year-old dad from Poolstock who died after suffering a catastrophic aneurysm has helped save four lives through organ donation.
Keiran McManus (Khabib) had been with his partner, Ruby Markland, for seven years and the couple had recently welcomed their daughter, Truly, who is just 14 weeks old. They were due to move into their first family home together when Keiran suffered the aneurysm. Instead of starting the next chapter of their lives together, Ruby is now facing life without her partner while raising their 14-week-old daughter alone.
Despite her own heartbreak, Ruby made the decision to donate Keiran’s organs. Four families have since received life-saving transplants, meaning four people have been given a second chance because of his final act.
Family friend Dione Lowe has launched an online fundraising appeal to support Ruby and Truly through the difficult months ahead. She said: “What should have been a joyful weekend moving into their first family home has turned into a tragedy that no family should ever face.
“Ruby has gone from planning a future with Keiran to navigating the unthinkable, becoming a single parent overnight while being in shock at losing her soul mate.
“In the middle of heartbreak, Ruby made an incredibly selfless and courageous decision. She chose to donate Keiran’s major organs and four families have now been given a future with their loved ones.
“I want her to know how proud we are of her and how much we are all thinking of her and will support her on the difficult days ahead.”
The appeal has already raised more than £8,000, with hundreds of people donating to help support Ruby and Truly.
Dione said the money raised would help cover funeral costs and ease some of the financial pressure facing Ruby while she comes to terms with the loss of Keiran and cares for their young daughter.
