A GoFundMe page set up by the victims of an alleged ‘homophobic attack’ to cover the costs of medical expenses related to the injuries sustained has far outstripped its goal.
Collie Aquino Teixeira McQuillan and Gui A McQuillan suffered facial injuries after they were set upon by a gang of youth in the early hours of Sunday morning June 10.
The men, aged 30 and 24 respectively, were both taken to hospital following the attack which took place in Hillview Drive near Knockmay.
The men were walking through the area when a group consisting of at least three men in their late teens or early 20s assaulted them with hurls.
Collie and his husband Gui say they believe the motive behind the unprovoked attack was homophobic.
Reports at the time said that Collie’s face was ‘smashed and bloodied beyond recognition, with an extremely swollen and protruding upper lip as well as extensive cuts and bruises to his lower face and jaw. His front teeth were also knocked out’.
And this is indeed the case as Collie says he is facing medical bills of €8,000 to repair the damage.
He set up the paged three days ago and it has already raised €17,780.
Collie posted an update on the GoFundMe Page where he says he is overwhelmed by the support.
He said: “Oh god from out of nowhere I’m shocked. This community has gone above and beyond to help and support me in this horrible situation.
“With your help each and every one of you have helped me reach each goal. I really thought 100 euro would be the max I would get but within a few hours we reached the first goal now within one day we have reached the second goal.
“Regardless of what happens now, I’m speechless. I’m crying writing this to think that you have all shed some ray of light on me during this time – has lifted my spirits so so much. Words wouldn’t come close to describing how I am feeling.
“I will keep you all updated about each procedure I undergo and my slow, but I know painful recovery, but thanks to you all it is a recovery that is possible.
“I want to say god bless all of you and honestly I love you all. Love is a strange word to use but its the only word that could come close to express how i feel towards you all.”
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