About Alan

Alan Doherty (18), is from Letterkenny in Donegal, Ireland.Alan was born with a rare maxillofacial disorder called "OTOCEPHALY". As a result he has no lower chin and has to breathe through a tube in his throat. Alan, who has never eaten a meal in his life and who communicates through a keyboard because he cannot speak, has been offered pioneering surgery in America and will go to New York for the operation.

Surgeons at the Sinai Centre in Manhattan are preparing to recreate a jaw on June 11, in a technique that has never before been carried out.

A major fundraising effort for the Errigal College pupil, led by friends and family, is now under way to raise the €250,000 needed for the initial 14-hour operation and a series of follow-ups.

Alan's family are currently fund-raising in America, but his parents Bernie and Danny and siblings Celine and Daniel are also trying to raise as much money as possible across Northern Ireland and the Republic.

Speaking through his talking keyboard, Alan said he has high hopes for the upcoming fund-raising events.

He said: "We need as much money as possible, as soon as possible. I am begging people, please help me. Please help me now. Thank you all so much".

Comedian Conal Gallen and Irish professional golfer Paul McGinley, Celtic FC & The Lisbon Lions are among the stars who have thrown their support behind the campaign.

Paul McBride, of the Friends of Alan Doherty committee, last night appealed to celebrities and members of the public to help raise the money for the ground breaking operation.

He said: "This operation would bring a massive improvement to his life."

When he was born, Alan's parents were told that he was unlikely to live.

In the summer of 2006, Alan was a competitor in the New York State Games for the Physically Disabled, bringing home five gold medals, five silver and a bronze.

It was during the games that he met US businessman Bill Broderick who asked Alan and a group of other young people what they would like. While the other children said ice-cream or sweets, Alan asked for "a perfect chin". Mr Broderick was so touched he arranged for Alan to see a specialist the following day and four weeks ago Alan and his parents travelled to meet doctors in New York to discuss the procedure.

Alan's schoolmates and teachers have organised a series of charity events including a football match and a remote control aeroplane show to raise funds.


Anyone who is able to contribute to the Alan Doherty Fundraising Account is advised that the account details are: Account Number 15038040; Sort Code 937347.

A credit card donation can also be made using the donate button on this website.