The Irish Athletic Boxing Association has hailed the "incredible response" to a fundraiser in aid of Newington ABC boxer Stephen McMullan.
The 25-year-old fell ill the day after fighting in the Ulster Elite heavyweight final on December 9.
Stephen spent five weeks in Intensive Care at the Royal Victoria Hospital but has now been moved out of ICU and is now being treated in the stroke ward.
There has been a wave of support for Stephen as he continues his health fight, with his amateur club Newington ABC asking people to pray for their coach, fighter and friend during his time in hospital.
Stephen's family have also been overwhelmed by the well-wishers and donations to a fundraising page set up for the boxer.
The initial target of £5,000 was smashed within days, which will help Stephen's family afford his intensive rehabilitation and an Eyegaze computer system, which he will need to enable him to communicate with others.
The Irish Athletic Boxing Association praised everyone involved in supporting the fundraising effort, and for rallying around Stephen and his family at this time.
"There’s been an incredible response to fundraising efforts to support the continued recovery of Ulster Elite boxer, Stephen McMullan," the Irish Athletic Boxing Association said.
"Stephen contested the Ulster Elite Final on December 9th. Stephen didn’t require medical attention during his bout, and, with his coaches, left Girdwood Community Hub after the Ulster Elite Finals.
"Unfortunately, Stephen fell ill at home, and was admitted to the Royal Victory Hospital on Friday, December 10 th .
"Stephen was discharged from ICU in recent days, but remains in hospital receiving ongoing care and support.
"His family have launched a fundraising campaign, to ensure that Stephen has all of the resources to meet his ongoing needs on his discharge from hospital. Over £5,000 has been raised in a matter of days.
"Ulster Boxing Council is in on-going contact with Stephen’s family. IABA and the Ulster Boxing Council will continue to provide support to Stephen, his family and his club during this period."
If you would like to donate to Stephen’s fundraising page, you can do so here.
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