Orlagh Winters and George Savage at the Primrose Black Tie Gala Ball at the Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
ON Friday night last there was a wonderful ball held in Ballygarry House in aid of Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
The ball named the Primrose Ball was held in memory of the late Tommy Brosnan. Over 350 people attended to help raise funds for IMNDA and also to help raise awareness for the horrible disease.
While it was a great night there was also a tinge of sadness during the speeches about how cruel Motor Neurone is.
It got me thinking about how generous and charitable we are as a nation.
Unfortunately there are a lot of charities that rely on the generosity of the public to survive but somehow they do. They offer crucial services that act as a back up to the health services.
Last year we all supported the Ice Bucket Challenge and this gave a huge boost to the fundraising efforts of IMNDA. It was a great idea and through the power of social media was a massive success.
A few years ago, while I was undergoing treatment for breast cancer, I received incredible support from NBCRI and the Irish Cancer Society, they gave me the information and the knowhow that I needed to help me through the dark days.
Sometimes a phone call to ask a question that you forgot to ask your doctor nurse is incredibly comforting.
Today in Kerry, there are two local charities who do tremendous work in helping people who are unfortunate enough to have the dreaded “C” word become part of their lives. Recovery Haven and Kerry Cancer Support provide vital services here in Tralee.
Thankfully they also receive support from the people of the town. Fundraising events are always taking place and local business owners and residents donate generously to these great causes.
On Sunday night of the May Bank Holiday weekend, Cycle Against Suicide will visit Tralee. The main objective of the cycle is to raise awareness of the considerable help and supports that are available for anyone battling depression, self harm, at risk of suicide or those bereaved by suicide.
Unfortunately we all know someone that has been affected in some way by suicide.
Once again I am asking you to show your charitable side and if you have a bed to offer to the cyclists, please contact the CAS homestay coordinator Margaret Brick 086 2408237 to register your free bed.
As far as I am aware, they are still short about sixty beds so if you have that spare room free, now is the time to give it a clean out and put it to good use.
Until next week,
Stay charitable!
Orlagh xx
