A ‘10 minute test saved our son's life’

Little did John and Rosarie Quilter think that a split second decision to send their son Tom for a cardiac screening would be the moment that saved his life.

Rosarie, Tom, and John Quilter - Photo by Mark O'Sullivan

A routine cardiac screening recently uncovered a potentially life-threatening undiagnosed cardiac issue in 14 year old Tom Quilter from Kerry. His parents, John and Rosarie, had initially planned to send their daughter Ciara for the screening organised by Churchill GAA in partnership with the Dillon Quirke Foundation.

However, a last minute change of plans led to Tom attending instead. The test revealed a serious heart condition that could have been fatal if left undetected. 

John Quilter, Tom's father, shared their experience: 

"A 10-minute test saved our son’s life. We were so lucky. It was scary to get the results but if we hadn't given him this routine test, his heart could have stopped. 

We are so grateful to the Dillon Quirke Foundation and want others to be aware of how important getting their children screened is. It is such a short test, and look at the difference it can make." 

Stories like Tom's highlight the critical importance of early cardiac screening for young athletes. We encourage sports clubs and parents of all young athletes across Ireland to prioritise this life saving test. 

For more information or to arrange a screening, please check out our information page here or feel free to get in touch at info@dillonquirkefoundation.com