February 17, 2011
By Staff Reporter
His parents are also battling, with a health insurance company that is running for cover and a New Jersey state health system that isn’t exactly stepping up to the plate either.
But the family has reason to hope because friends, neighbors and the Ancient Order of Hibernians are rallying to the side of the brave 19-month-old toddler and his parents, Joelyn and Sean O’Brien.
Keane, according to his dad, is stricken with “an undiagnosed Leukodystrophy,” a rare and devastating illness that results from a lack of sufficient white brain matter.
“We are having quite the battle trying to keep up with all the medical bills for his treatments and non-stop testing. Way to much of our time is spent fighting with our insurance and the state instead of caring for our son,” Sean O’Brien told the Echo.
“Not being the type to sit back or rely on others we formed a non-profit organization and have been doing everything in our power to ensure Keane gets everything and anything needed. And the AOH has been nice enough to host our first benefit,” O’Brien added.
That benefit will take place this Sunday, Nov. 22 and is being organized by Trenton’s Monsignor Crean AOH Division One. It is set for 2 to 8 p.m. at the Hibernian Club, 2419 Kuser Road in Hamilton.
A number of groups will be playing music at the event including Birmingham Six, The Nancy McHugh Band and Na’bodach. All funds raised will be going to the Keane Patrick O’Brien Foundation.
Additionally, according to an AOH release, a number of area businesses have joined forces with the AOH in supporting the O’Brien family. They have donation jars on their premises and are making special bracelets available. The businesses are Cross and Shamrock, Tir Na N