Flowers and tributes outside the entrance to Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East(Image: Stephen Collins/Collins)

Family of little girl injured in Parnell Square attack say 'Christmas will be special' this year

17 Dec 2024, 17:14 by Cathal Ryan · Irish Mirror

The family of the ‘angel warrior’ who was left critically injured in an attack in Parnell Square last year have said “Christmas will be special” this year now that she is home.

The six-year-old girl was left fighting for her life in hospital after the incident on November 23 last year when she was just five, which also saw two other children and care assistant Leanne Flynn Keogh injured.

A fundraiser was set up for the 'angel warrior', called Barróg do Chailín Beag or a Hug For A Little Girl, where her loving family have been sharing updates on her health as she recovers - Barróg being the name of the teddy who has been keeping a "special" school seat warm.

In August, the brave little girl was discharged from Temple Street Children's Hospital, beginning a new chapter in her life as she began rehabilitation and continued to regain her strength. Four weeks into her time in “the gym”, what her family have called that chapter in her life, they shared that the new hospital was “inspiring”, but revealed they wished their beloved daughter could be home for Christmas.

Now, over one year after the attack that left her critically injured, the little girl is back home, and her family say “Christmas will be special this year”.

The scene in Dublin city centre after five people were injured, including three young children, following a serious public order incident which occurred on Parnell Square East shortly after 1.30pm. Picture date: Thursday November 23, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story IRISH Children. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

“This is our third week at home,” an update on the GoFundMe page for the little girl read.

“Our little girl is already used to sleeping in her bed every day, and we have understood how much having a routine helps with her development. She is becoming accustomed to being in her stander, playing with her toys, and announcing when something is not okay.

“It is important for her feel we can understand her sounds and looks. I have managed to put together some activities which are manageable given the home environment. Christmas will be special this year.”

Garda at the scene of the knife attack on Parnell Square East(Image: Conor Ó Mearáin / Collins Photo Agency)

The GoFundMe has far surpassed the initial target of €500, raising a massive €121,429 to help the young girl and her family. To donate, head here.

Riad Bouchaker, 50, of no fixed abode, has been charged with attempted murder of the three children, and with assault causing serious harm to the woman.

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