WATCH: Maynooth University Design Student Wins National James Dyson Award

Wednesday, 10 September 2025 11:32

By Tara Flanagan

Maynooth University Graduate Zoë O’Sullivan

Zoë O’Sullivan’s device empowers people with lymphoedema to carry out vital therapy themselves

A Maynooth University design graduate has won the Irish leg of this year’s James Dyson Award for her invention, Lymphia — a device that allows patients to carry out lymphatic drainage therapy at home.

Zoë O’Sullivan designed the handheld tool to help people with conditions such as lipedema and lymphoedema, who often rely on costly compression devices or frequent physiotherapy sessions.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is disrupted, causing swelling. It most commonly affects the arms and legs, but can also impact other parts of the body.

Lymphia uses small steel balls to precisely stimulate lymphatic vessels, enabling patients to perform Manual Lymphatic Drainage independently.

O’Sullivan was inspired by a friend with lymphoedema and her own recovery from breast reduction surgery, during which she experienced fluid retention and saw the benefits of drainage therapy.

Welcoming her award O'Sullivan said "I am thrilled about winning the national Dyson award for Lymphia. It feels great to have my work acknowledged and so highly praised, and I am grateful for the awareness it will raise about lymphoedema and breast cancer.”

The €6,000 prize money will go towards funding a patent application.

Lymphia is now set to progress to the international stage of the James Dyson Award.

The international top 20 shortlist will be announced on October 15th and the international winners on November 5th.

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