A fundraiser has been set up to help provide care for former Dublin soccer player James 'Jacko' McDonagh by his children.
'Jacko' was a defender by trade and played for Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers in the 1970s and 1980s. The 62-year-old was named PFAI Young Player of the year in 1982, and won two League of Ireland titles with Rovers in 1984 and 1985.
He also earned three caps for the Republic of Ireland during a distinguished career.
'Jacko' travelled back to Dublin from France with plans to celebrate his 60th birthday. However, he suffered a "severe" stroke which left him paralysed in his left side which has been "extremely challenging" for his family.
The former footballer's children Edward and Jean-Baptiste launched a GoFundMe to cover the costs of the "extensive care" needed to support his needs. Jacko's children wrote: "Everybody close to Dad, family and friends have found the last few months extremely challenging.
"Although Dad has lost the ability to walk, he still has his usual wit and charm that keeps everyone going!... Sadly our Dad's commitment to the life of a professional footballer in the 1980s provided no financial rewards to deal with the costs associated with his current long-term care requirements.
"This is why we are here to ask for your help. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a difference in our Dad's life."
They added: "It is difficult to estimate with certainty the total funding required to deal with our Dad's long-term care for his remaining years. Our best estimate of the extra funding required, not covered by State aid or personal sources, is €120,000.
"With your support, we can help ensure that our Dad receives the best care possible for his needs." The campaign was launched on February 28 and over €8,000 has already been raised.
Donations can be made to the GoFundMe page here.
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