Navan family urges help to reunite with son found in distress in Sydney

A Navan family is urgently appealing for help after their 23-year-old son was found in a state of distress in Sydney, Australia, following a two-week disappearance.

John and Rachel Murphy, from Navan launched an online campaign to find their son, Dylan, after he went was reported missing on 6th October after arriving from Darwin.

For weeks, the family lived in uncertainty, fearing for his safety and well being. Then, on 21st October, after an agonising wait, Dylan was discovered disoriented and suffering from the effects of sleeping rough in Sydney for over two weeks without any belongings. He was found by police and is now receiving hospital care.

“After weeks of fear and uncertainty, we are relieved that Dylan has been found and is now safe, but it breaks our hearts to know he was alone and without support,” the family said in a heartfelt message on Facebook. “Dylan is receiving the care he needs, but the costs of travel, accommodation, and recovery expenses are overwhelming.”

The Murphy family is now seeking donations to help cover the cost of flights to Sydney, temporary accommodation, and the ongoing care Dylan needs.

The campaign has so far raised over €3,200 of their €4,000 target, with the family expressing deep gratitude for the support they’ve received from well-wishers both near and far.

“We’ve been touched by the kindness and generosity of so many people. Family, friends, and even strangers have stepped in to help, and it’s been a huge source of comfort during this incredibly difficult time,” they added. “Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us bring Dylan home and ensure he gets the support he needs.”

Once Dylan is well enough to return to Ireland, the family plans to donate any leftover funds to Pieta House, the Irish mental health charity, and to the Irish Support Agency in NSW, who offer assistance to Irish citizens in crisis.

The Murphys are hopeful that their son will soon be back with them in Ireland, but for now, they remain focused on his recovery and getting him the care he needs. If you would like to help support the family during this difficult time, donations can be made via their online fundraiser.

If you would like to help support the family during this difficult time, donations can be made via their online fundraiser you can find here