The past 40 days have been very exciting for one Clogher Valley man, Jonathan Crawford, who has received hundreds of cards from all over the world to celebrate his 40th birthday following a request by his sister on social media.

 

Jonathan Crawford admiring his birthday cards.

Jonathan Crawford admiring his birthday cards.

 

Jonathan was born with Downs Syndrome and had two holes in his heart. He then took double pneumonia and ended up in The Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. Jonathan’s parents John and Carol Crawford were prepared for the very worst by the medical team who said if he survived that he might never walk and would be left like "a rag doll".

Defying all the odds Jonathan came through major heart surgery and made a miraculous recovery. The family firmly believe that this was due, not only to the professionalism and skill of the medical team, but also an answer to much prayer from so many in the local community.

Today Jonathan is a thriving young man who has since undergone a number of other surgeries. His energy, zest for life and love are contagious and 40 years on his family are so grateful to everyone who has supported and helped him to date.

Jonathan’s mother Carol, along with sisters Adele and Glenda wish to relay a sincere and heartfelt thank you to every single individual, group and company who took the time to write a personal card to Jonathan.

"He has always loved opening post and for the past 40 days the bundles of cards have been coming through his door thick and fast," said a family spokesperson, adding: "Beautiful messages and packages from as far away as Alaska, California, New York, Italy, Scotland in addition to hundreds across Ireland have been so gratefully received.

 

Jonathan pictured with postman Gareth Henry who was kept very busy delivering all the birthday cards. He really enjoyed seeing the postmarks from all over the world .

Jonathan pictured with postman Gareth Henry who was kept very busy delivering all the birthday cards. He really enjoyed seeing the postmarks from all over the world .

 

"The outpouring of love and kindness has really touched the family and everyone who responded has really made this special birthday such a memorable one. A special thank you goes to the staff at Royal Mail who played an integral role in the birthday celebrations also."