The three sisters who were seriously injured in a horror crash on the M9 have praised the ‘incredible kindness and compassion’ of the public, which has supported them ‘through one of the most difficult chapters of our lives’.

Sisters Ella Hendricken, Niamh Kinsella and Alma Kinsella, aged in their 20s and 30s, and a young boy were seriously injured when a car crashed into their vehicle head-on in August.

The family had been on the way to Dublin Airport for a holiday.

Five teenagers in the other car, which were travelling the wrong way down the M9, died. They were Joe Carthy, Jack Kennedy, Alex McCarthy, Jeremy O’Brien, and Kamil Pustkowski.

A GoFundMe set up to raise money for the sisters has raised over €833,000.

In an online update posted on Thursday, the sisters thanked family, friends and the public for their ‘generosity, your prayers, your well wishes and for helping us through one of the most difficult chapters of our lives’.

‘As we look back on everything that has happened over the past few months, it’s difficult to find the words to express just how grateful we are,’ they said in the statement.

‘Throughout this journey, we have been reminded of the incredible kindness and compassion that exists in the world. The love and support we have received from so many people has meant more to us than words could ever express.

‘To everyone who has donated, sent messages, offered well wishes, kept us in your thoughts and prayers, or reached out to show their support, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.’

‘The generosity shown by people in our own community, across Ireland and further afield has been truly overwhelming,’ they continued. ‘A very special thank you to our family, friends and everyone who has stood by our side throughout this journey.

‘Your kindness, love and encouragement have meant so much to us, and we will never forget. The incredible generosity you have shown has provided our family with practical support, comfort and reassurance for the future.

‘Knowing that so many people care about us has meant more than words can express.’

‘From all of us, thank you for your generosity, your prayers, your well wishes and for helping us through one of the most difficult chapters of our lives.

‘We will never forget your kindness and support, and we will be forever grateful. With all our love and heartfelt gratitude, Ella, Niamh and Alma,’ they concluded.