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At the launch of the charity walk were, from left; David McCarty of AADI, Kieran Corcoran of Corcoran’s Furniture and Carpets; James O’Donoghue, Shane O’Callaghan and Mikayla Corcoran. Photo: Drew Dineen
FORMER Kerry footballer James O’ Donoghue has formally launched Corcoran’s Furniture and Carpets charity walk in aid of Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI).
The event will take place on Saturday, June 8 through the iconic Gap of Dunloe. Killarney AADI family, Darragh Cattigan, his mum, Áine, and star of the show, Darragh’s super-hero dog, Buzz, also attended the launch in support of the walk.
A key feature of the launch included a talk from the Head of AADI Fundraising, David McCarthy, and he discussed the positive impact that corporate fundraising has on the charity.
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Speaking at the launch, Kerry All Ireland medallist, James O’ Donoghue said: ‘I am thrilled to be supporting the Corcoran’s charity walk in aid of AADI, and I am looking forward to taking part on the day. AADI is a wonderful charity that makes a genuine difference to children with Autism and their families.”
Áine Cattigan spoke about the importance of their AADI dog Buzz, and the difference that Buzz has made to their family
“We as a family feel beyond grateful that Buzz has come into our lives,” she said. “It is hard to put into words the difference that our phenomenal Autism assistance dog has made to us. When we go out in public, we are now safe in the knowledge that Buzz will help to keep Darragh away from harm.
“As they are joined by a lead tied around Darragh’s waist, Buzz prevents him from potentially bolting into ongoing traffic, or from running off. Buzz also helps to keep Darragh calm, and they have a genuine bond that is a joy to behold.
“As Darragh’s mother, I am now able to go on outings with just the two of us without worrying, this allows my husband and my other sons to enjoy valuable family time together also. Buzz has changed our entire world; we are forever grateful for him, and we are delighted to support Corcoran’s charity walk for AADI in any way that we can.”
The aim of Corcoran’s Gap of Dunloe walk is to raise as much funds as possible for AADI, hence, the walk is open to the public, with a minimum fundraising target of €100 per person (this includes the cost of the boat trip and lunch).
The event is pre-booking only, and Corcoran’s would love people of all ages to sign up and join this exciting day out for a truly worthy cause.
Registration on the day of the walk, for those who have pre-booked, will commence at 9.30am on Saturday, 8 June at Ross Castle, Killarney.
The boats will depart at 10.30am, taking all participants on an hour-long journey through the stunning lakes of Killarney. This will be followed by an 11K walk (approximately 2.5 – 3 hours) from Lord Brandon’s Cottage to Kate Kearny’s cottage, where lunch will be served upon completion of the walk.
Corcoran’s Furniture will provide a complimentary bus service back to Ross Castle for all those participating in the fundraising event. All funds raised will go directly towards the training of an assistance dog, which will change a child’s life as well as the lives of their loved ones.
To register for the walk, please contact AADI via: : https://www.autismassistancedogsireland.ie/event/view/corcorans-gap-of-dunloe Once you have completed registration you will receive an AADI fundraising pack and a t-shirt in support of the event.
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