A member of Aer Lingus’ cabin crew is “overwhelmed” by support from kind strangers following her devastating diagnosis of motor neurone disease.
A fundraiser set up for Stephanie Scott Byrne and her family has raised over €53,800.
Aer Lingus cabin crew Fiona and Anne Gillespie set up a GoFundMe page for their former colleague, who can no longer work due to her illness.
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Stephanie Scott Byrne was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in January of this year. She started working for Aer Lingus in 2005 and adored her job.
“Stephanie’s love of her job as cabin crew, her love of people and love of fun was infectious,” the GoFundMe page said.
Since her diagnosis, she is unable to return to work and her husband, Michael, has given up his job to be her full-time carer. He does this whilst also parenting their daughter, April, who is 9-years-old.
Stephanie’s colleagues, Fiona and Anne Gillespie, set up the fundraiser to help support the family “through these challenging times ahead”. It had a goal of €5,000 but has since raised an astonishing €53,876.
Following the amazing support from over 1,500 people, Michael shared a message to the page to thank everyone. He said: “Hi everyone, we are so grateful for all the generosity of your efforts to help us.
“If Stephanie was well enough, she would be thanking you personally.”
Her husband, also known as Mike, shared the sad news that Stephanie’s condition has deteriorated. “Unfortunately, her illness has progressed, and basic communication is a burden for her,” he said.
Despite this, the former cabin crew member was “overwhelmed” by the kindness of those who donated.
“When I showed her this page she was overwhelmed, and I am equally humbled by the kindness of each and every one of you.
“Thank you so much, Steph and Mike,” the post finished.
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