In recent public speeches, President Michael D. Higgins has consistently and correctly commented on our need, as a nation, for continued community spirit. In March of this year he stated, “The natural strengths that have built and continue to enhance our reputation include our community spirit and social solidarity. In April he again remarked, “Our pioneering spirit and approach in caring for the people of our community is remarkable.”
Here in Co.Tipperary I am happy to report that social solidarity and community spirit are both alive and kicking. This latter statement is confirmed by last weekend’s Irish Cancer Society fundraising drive, the brainchild of builder Colm Dunne, ably assisted by Pat Treacy, Mary Doyle, Una Dunne and Andrew Walsh’s family run Coach & Minibus Hire company.
Add a couple of hotels, prepared to operate special rates on accommodation, e.g. Travelodge, Castleknock, 25 dedicated Clonakenny district fundraisers, determined to visit 26 Irish counties by road in just 3 days and the result will be at least €10,000 for the charity The Irish Cancer Society.
To the 25 residents of Clonakenny, Thurles and Roscrea, aged between 25 and 50 years old, who undertook this mammoth fundraising task and a 3 day bus ride, in an effort to assist in defeating a common enemy, namely ‘Cancer,’ my congratulations.
The organising committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who entered into the spirit of last weekend, by having their eyelashes, hair and chests, either dyed, shaved or waxed. As Colm Dunne remarked, “You never look stupid fighting cancer.”
By the way, if anyone out there would like to make a small contribution to this very worthy fundraising event, there is still time. Send your donation, no matter how small, to Una Dunne, Longfordwood, Clonakenny, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, to arrive on or before May 19th next at 10:00pm, when the total proceeds of this event will be publically presented at a function in the Norebrook Lounge, Clonakenny, Tipperary.
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