Award for Offaly teen who returned to school weeks after losing leg in tractor accident

An Offaly teenager has received a poignant Garda Youth Award for his exceptional bravery and positivity in the face of a life-changing injury.

Kinnitty teen Michael Dennedy had only just started his summer break last year when he lost his leg as a result of a tractor accident.

Michael bravely powered through and insisted on returning to school for the first day of the new school year, despite only just leaving the hospital.

Michael has remained exceptionally positive throughout his ordeal. He has never let his injury prevent him from achieving anything he sets his sights on.

He continues to work with hurling and soccer teams as an assistant coach and has taken part in all class activities to the absolute fullest of his ability. He has held his friends close throughout and in turn, his friends have been exceptionally good to him.

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He was given his Special Achievement Award by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, recently.

A statement confirmed his award said: "Michael’s presence brings out the best in everyone he encounters. Michael has embraced wheelchair sports and has recently won a silver All Ireland medal for wheelchair hurling with Leinster.

"All 150 students in Michael’s year group, as well as hundreds more from his hometown of Kinnitty, Co. Offaly and beyond, have been touched and motivated by his resilience.

"Michael has some distance to go in his recovery but we know he has the strength and bravery to go on and accomplish anything he puts his mind to."

An Garda Síochána's annual National Garda Youth Awards recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community.