IN financial terms, the people of West Cork have contributed €65,994 to a trust fund for Andrew Brennan who sustained life-changing injuries as a result of an ​accident near Schull on May 13th 2025.

The community of West Cork has also bodily embraced Andrew, and his metaphysical needs, by extending a warm welcome to him and his parents, Jill and Dave.

At a cheque presentation at The Corner Bar in Skibbereen last week, it emerged that Jill and Dave are looking to relocate from Dublin to West Cork because Andrew is determined to return ‘home’ before the year is out.

Andrew lost most movement and sensation from his shoulders down and is now tetraplegic. But he is busy with rehab ​and looking to get back working in some capacity.

In the words of Alex, his big brother: ‘Andrew wants more than anything to be able to be of service in the world.’

Andrew’s physical approach to living life can be seen in the close bonds he formed with the members of Skibbereen Rugby Club when he moved to West Cork.

It was there too in the time he spent working at Gubbeen Farm with his partner, Rosie, and the Ferguson family, as well as the superb furniture he made.

Andrew is now in the process of reinventing himself. Helping him to do just that are his rugby club teammates, his family, and his friends throughout West Cork.

‘Andrew is hoping to return home as soon as the house adaptation is done,’ Alex told The Southern Star.

‘Then​, my parents will want to, and need to, be as close to him as they possibly can.’

Alex mentioned that his great grandmother is originally from Dunmanus West, which is where Andrew’s homing instinct brought him 15 years ago.

‘It’s been incredible,’ he added, ‘to feel how the community has given us a real sense of belonging.

‘From Goleen to Schull to Skibbereen, there have been events across all of those communities in support of Andrew. It’s been incredibly moving for the family as a whole.’

A​ tractor run organised by Skibbereen Rugby Club raised over €11,000. A GoFundMe campaign raised over €46,000, which included €3,000 for a poker classic.

Then​, there was the ‘Dowcha Boy’ road bowling fundraiser at Marsh Road in Skibbereen that raised €7,700, plus a recent Cards Night in Goleen.

People continue to show their support by organising fundraising events and making donations directly via The Andrew Brennan Trust Fund website.