The McCrossan family from St Johnston embarked on their journey to the Netherlands today as their four-year-old son, Zach, begins treatment for a rare blood disorder.
Zach was diagnosed with high-risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a serious blood condition with the potential to develop into Acute Myeloid Leukaemia.
This diagnosis was especially difficult for the family, as Zach’s mother, Patrice (née Rodgers), had been diagnosed with AML just a year prior. Patrice, a mother of four, underwent extensive chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant and continues to receive ongoing treatment.
Over the past eighteen months, the McCrossan family has been overwhelmed by the support of their family, friends, and local community. A GoFundMe campaign for Zach’s treatment impressively raised a six-figure sum within just 24 hours in April.
As they departed for the airport today, the family expressed their sincere gratitude to everyone who has offered support.
Zach’s treatment in the Netherlands, at the Princess Máxima Centre in Utrecht, is expected to last approximately three months and will require inpatient care.
“A bone marrow transplant is his only hope, and unfortunately, it’s a procedure that cannot be performed in Ireland,” Gary and Patrice explained.
Brave four year old Zach McCrossan
“As we head to the airport and begin this next chapter, we are filled with hope, a range of emotions, and immense gratitude,” they shared in a Facebook post today.
“To each and every person, both near and far, who has supported us – thank you. Whether you contributed financially, organized a fundraiser, provided transportation, delivered meals, cared for our other children, offered advice, or simply sent words of encouragement, we have felt your love and kindness in every way.
“It is thanks to you – our incredible network of family, friends, neighbors, and kind strangers – that we are able to be by Zach’s side as he starts his treatment at the Princess Máxima Center in Utrecht.”
Donegal’s McCrossan family begins journey of hope to the Netherlands was last modified: June 14th, 2025 by
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