Wicklow's Jacob Byrne Returns For 25th Anniversary Of Trick Or Treat For Sick Children

Meet Wicklow native, Jacob, who was the face of the 2018 Trick or Treat campaign he returns this year to support Trick or Treat for Sick Children’s 25th Anniversary.

The Children’s Health Foundation celebrates 25 years of its Trick or Treat for Sick Children campaign, which raises vital funds for sick children and their families across Ireland.

Schools, communities, and families come together each Halloween to support Children’s Health Ireland hospitals and urgent care centers.

Jacob Byrne, a Wicklow native and face of the 2018 campaign, returns this year to mark the milestone.

Born in 2013, Jacob was diagnosed with a rare metabolic condition, PKU, which requires a lifelong low-protein diet and regular hospital monitoring.

“Temple Street Hospital literally wrapped their arms around us,” recalls Jacob’s dad, Conor. “Even now, they’re always at the end of the phone if we need them.”

Thanks to hospital support and a new drug, Kuvan, Jacob and his younger brother, who also has PKU, enjoy more dietary flexibility, though careful planning is still part of daily life.

Conor emphasizes the impact of fundraising: “Even small donations make a huge difference—helping fund equipment, comforts, and services that improve a child’s hospital experience.”

This Halloween, join the 25-year tradition and help make a difference for children like Jacob.