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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Sarah Slater

Former RTE star Gareth O’Callaghan takes first steps after being injured in horror crash

Broadcaster and author Gareth O’Callaghan has given a second update on his health since he was involved in a serious car crash three weeks ago.

The popular Classic HitsFM broadcaster, his wife Paula and her daughter Emma were involved in a car crash on Horgan’s Quay in Cork 21 days ago.

The father-of-three had been recovering at Cork University Hospital (CUH) since the collision. He has now been moved to South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital also in Cork.

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Doctors have told him he has a broken back, a ruptured lung, and some other injuries.

Early this morning he posted a photo of himself in hospital accompanied by his wife Paula. The father-of-three said: “Day 21. Thank you for all the many kind Get Well Soon greetings and texts over the past three weeks. Just a short update to let you know that progress is being made. Here are a couple of photos taken during the week.

“I was transferred from CUH to South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital here in Cork last weekend for more scans and intensive physio(therapy) in an effort to get back on the road again. It's a slow journey but it's all looking positive.”

He revealed that Paula is on crutches too due to her injuries and that he has managed to take his first steps since the horrific crash.

O’Callaghan added: “But she still makes it in to visit every day. She is amazing. Here we are propping each other up. She is recovering well, thank God. Emma is also doing great.

"The other pic was taken during the week. My first time back on my feet in three weeks for a few seconds. It felt fantastic. Small steps, a day at a time, and we'll get there.

"A huge thank you to the staff here at South Infirmary who have all made me feel very much like one of the family. Each and every one of you is truly amazing. Thank you for your care and kindness.”

In 2018, the legendary broadcaster had announced his retirement from broadcasting following his diagnosis with the neurodegenerative illness, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), which has no cure. His return to the radio came after a five year gap and presents a show every weekend.

He has credited his wife Paula with being “his rock”. The radio presenter has previously said that for about a year before his diagnosis, said he was fooling himself about the symptoms. The pair married in 2020.

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