THE girlfriend of a young Irishman fighting for his life after a horror attack has told how “life was put on hold”.
Charlie Dooher received a brutal beating when a gang of five hooded men broke into his Donegal home last week.
Charlie and his father were “violently” beaten by the thugs in their Lifford at Coneyburrow Road, close to the border with Co Tyrone, at around 10.30am.
Charlie, aged in his 20s, was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast for emergency surgery on a serious head injury.
His father, who is also named Charles and in his 60s, suffered less severe injuries and is getting treated at Letterkenny University Hospital.
Charlie’s girlfriend Charlotte Gallen revealed on social media how the couple’s life has been put on hold after the masked men “violently beat”, leaving him in serious condition after “shattering his skull”.
She said: “One week since life was put on hold.
“A week of sitting and talking by your bed side but you’re not talking back.
“Thank you everyone for your prayers and kind messages, keep the prayers coming they’re needed now more than ever.”
A full garda investigation has been launched into the brutal attack and cops are appealing to the public for information.
Two men, who were arrested by PSNI officers in Derry in connection to the incident, were released on bail.
Charlotte continued: “This time last year we were living in Australia sitting by the beach and today I sit by his bed side in intensive care praying for some sort of miracle to have the love of my life back with us in full health.
“Charlie has never failed to take my worries away and always fills me with a sense of peace and serenity with his kindness and big heart.
“If he could see me now he would be telling me to take a deep breath and have hope.
“His presence brought safety and I wish I could have given him that same protection from some of the evil people in this world.”
Naomh Padraig Leifear GAA are holding a 7-a-side fundraiser for the family on Sunday, February 16.
‘VITAL MEMBER’
Organisers said: “Charles is a vital member of our club and we hope he makes a full and speedy recovery and back home with his family doing what he loves best.
“Our 7-a-side (three subs) will consist of three players that are currently playing GAA for a club.
“The other members of your team have to be past players or your mother, father, granny, or granda.
“It’s a day of fun and to bring our community together for a great cause.
“All money raised will help Charles’s family with travelling up and down to Belfast.”
