Brave Leitrim boy (8) can’t walk—but you can help him farm with a special quad

Eight-year-old Michael Barry from Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim, was born with a rare genetic condition known as Contiguous XP21 deletion syndrome — a combination of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), congenital adrenal hypoplasia (CAH), and glycerol kinase deficiency (GKD).

Michael has never walked unaided and relies on a wheelchair. Unlike most boys with DMD who gradually lose mobility, Michael has faced these challenges since birth. But if there’s one thing this determined young lad loves, it’s being outdoors and farming with his family.

His parents, Brendan and Nicola Barry, say Michael is just like any other boy when it comes to wanting adventures on the land — but their farm isn't accessible by car, and a wheelchair can only go so far.

Last year, the Moran family and Allen Gaels GAA donated €2,000 in memory of Ronan Moran, Michael’s friend and "Shroomsday" buddy. Now, Allen Gaels are stepping up again with a 25 Card Drive fundraiser on April 27, aiming to support Michael’s latest goal: an enclosed all-terrain vehicle.

The dream? A quad or RTV with a secure cab and proper seating so Michael can safely join in on farm life, no matter the weather. These vehicles cost between €15,000 and €20,000, and so far, €13,705 has already been raised.

“We just want Michael to enjoy being out and about, like any other child,” says his family. “With this vehicle, he’ll be strapped in, dry, and safe — and able to see the cows!”

Want to help make this dream a reality?

Donate here and be part of something special.

Every euro brings Michael one step closer to freedom on the farm.

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