STA is proud to announce that 15-year-old Declan Meehan from Gortahork, County Donegal, has become the 13th recipient of its prestigious Roll of Honour – the highest accolade presented by the national swimming and lifesaving charity.

Declan’s bravery came to light after his lifesaving instructor, Esther Jean O’Kane, shared news of how he had saved 12-year-old Peadar Harley at Bunaninver on 17th August. Peadar had found himself out of his depth while swimming with friends and began to panic, going under the water. Using his lifesaving training and calm reassurance, Declan safely brought Peadar back to the pier and then sat with him afterwards to explain what to do if it ever happened again – even encouraging him to get back into the water so he wouldn’t be afraid.

Declan’s courage is all the more remarkable given his own journey. At the age of five, he suffered a bleed on the brain which left him with limited use of his left arm and leg. Doctors once feared he might never walk or talk again, but through determination, family support, and years of training with his swim and fitness coaches, Declan has defied the odds – and now used his strength and skills to save another child’s life.

Esther Jean O’Kane, Declan’s lifesaving instructor at Donegal Lifeguard & Leisure Training, said: “Declan is a very special young man. He trains so hard despite his own challenges, and to see him put those lifesaving skills into practice in a real emergency – remaining calm, giving reassurance, and bringing Peadar back to safety – makes me incredibly proud. He is an inspiration to all of us.”

Dave Candler, CEO of STA and IFSTA, added: “Declan’s story is both humbling and inspiring. Not only did he save another child’s life, but he did so after overcoming his own personal health challenges – showing strength, resilience, and compassion beyond his years.

This is exactly what our Roll of Honour represents, and it’s a privilege to recognise Declan as only the 13th person in more than 20 years to receive this award. His actions also reinforce the importance of teaching swimming and lifesaving skills to young people, because you never know when they may be needed.”

Photo caption: Surrounded by family and friends on the 29th November, Declan was presented with his Roll of Honour by Esther at a special party organised by his parents.

Following the ceremony, on November 30th, Declan pushed his limits on the SkiErg, tackling a gruelling 26.2-mile marathon to raise vital funds for Donegal Cancer Flights – a charity that has provided him with life-changing support for his own medical appointments. Declan did half the marathon on his own with no break, continuously going for 3 hours & 10 mins without stopping, 21,100 km!

Declan’s mum said: “Declan’s dedication to this cause is truly inspiring, and he’s not stopping there! He also competed in a swimming competition at The National Rehabilitation Centre in Dublin on the 25th of November with the goal of joining the Special Olympics team Ireland for swimming. This amazing athlete is a shining example of determination and courage.”