The Mayo man who installed the first life-saving defibrillators on Croagh Patrick has developed a medical kit to improve emergency response to severe allergic reactions.
Founder of Eco Powered Cabinets, Darren Forde, from Hollymount, has now created the life-saving 'Emergency Anaphylaxis Plus Kit' with a view to making them readily available in schools, community centres, sports halls and other public spaces.
He said the aim is to be able to directly access vital equipment including EpiPens and other essential medicines where every second counts.
"Direct access to this equipment is as essential as defibrillators and life buoys. This is where every second counts. We supply the licensed EpiPen auto-injectors, Salbutamol inhalers and Naloxone for rapid access in an emergency," he added.
The kit was launched earlier this week in Castlebar by Minister of State Alan Dillon.
"We heard heartbreaking stories from families who have lost loved ones due to anaphylaxis," he said.
"It underlines the absolute need for communities and organisations to have access to life-saving equipment when every second counts."
Carmel Sheehan travelled to the event from Macroom in Co Cork with her son Conor.
Carmel's husband died in 2024 after being stung by wasps multiple times. An inquest heard he had suffered a "massive allergic reaction".
Ms Sheehan said she remembered being asked by a first responder at the scene if there was an EpiPen available in the house.
Michael Sheehan had no history of allergies and the family did not have one in the house.
Speaking after the inquest, members of the Sheehan family urged the public to be aware of possible side effects of insect stings. They said that people who know that they have an allergic reaction to wasp or bee stings should consider investing in EpiPens.
Since the passing of his father, Conor Sheehan now carries two EpiPens at all times.
GAA president Jarlath Burns welcomed the initiative.
"It will make a real difference to people's lives, particularly in how it supports those with additional needs and raises awareness through thoughtful design. It is also very powerful to hear families share their stories - it helps bring home the true value of work like this," he said.
"The product is designed, produced and packaged in Mayo."
Eco Powered Cabinets has already trained 32 professionals from 16 State agencies accredited by the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC)
