Croagh Patrick climbed by St Flannan’s students for local charities

TRANSITION year students from St Flannan’s College climbed Croagh Patrick on Thursday in aid of three local charities, Milford Hospice, Cancer Care West and Cahercalla Community Care.

Students left Ennis at 8am, had a quick stop in Ballindine for some snacks and refreshments, before arriving at the foot of Croagh Patrick for the challenging climb.

Upon reaching the summit, there was emotional highs and feelings of accomplishment among the group. The clouded views of Clew Bay was matched by a sense of euphoria among the St Flannan’s contingent.

Other fundraising initiatives have taken place in the school including a Bake Sale. sponsorship cards have been given to students and a flag day took place across Ennis town on Friday. There will be a bag packing session in Dunnes Stores on May 11th. A ‘Go Fund Me Page’, was set up by the organiser Claire Wehrley. A mega draw will take place in May with amazing jerseys on offer including jerseys signed by national, provincial and county teams, from the Irish women’s soccer team, to Munster Rugby teams and county hurling, football and camogie jerseys.

Teacher Claire Wehrley explained, “As our school is situated in Ennis, Co. Clare we chose these charities as many of us have been touched by those who have availed of their services. All three charities help cancer patients and families with support and after care needs. Many students, teachers and their families know patients who have availed of short term and long term social needs and respite care of the above mentioned charities and are aware of the need of on-going fundraising. We in St. Flannan’s college encourage students to take an active approach to help the wider community. TY students have taken part in Focus Ireland’s ‘sleep out’ and also did a recent clothing appeal for St. Vincent de Paul”.

Alex Furey a TY student said, “When I learned about the fundraiser, I immediately signed up for it. Everybody will be affected by cancer in some way. One in three people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. These three hospices provide so much support for patients and their families who have to deal with the impacts of this terrible disease. I had a family member who was diagnosed with cancer and was cared for in Milford Care Centre. Sadly, she didn’t make it, but the support offered by Milford was incredible. You really don’t learn how phenomenal they are until you meet them”.

The students and teachers would like to acknowledge all the generous donations thus far and a special thanks to Tom Haugh of HM Travel for sponsoring the busses to and from Westport. 100% of monies collected will go directly to the three charities, divided equally.