On Saturday, September 10th, Kildorrery will be a hive of activity thanks to two fundraising events being undertaken by local cancer sufferer, Garry Walsh who wishes to ‘give something back’ to The Mercy Hospital through The Mercy Cancer Appeal.
Following a diagnosis in November 2015 that he had oesophageal cancer, Kildorrery man Garry Walsh (51), was referred to the Mercy University Hospital where he is currently undergoing treatment under the care of Professor Seamus O’Reilly and his team.
Upon receiving treatment at The Mercy, Garry made the decision to organise a fundraising event to help purchase two electric profiling beds for cancer patients in St Therese’s Ward. At a cost of €2,250 each, these beds will go a long way to making life more comfortable for patients in the ward.
“While I can, I would love to do something for The Mercy as they are simply brilliant up there,” Garry told The Avondhu this week. So, to this end, Garry, with the help of family and friends, is organising a 5 mile family fun run and walk for the afternoon of September 10, followed later that night by a social evening that will comprise of a barbecue, disco and live band plus lots of spot prizes.
The 5 mile run/walk will start at 3pm on Sarturday, September 10 at Kildorrery Creamery. The entry fee for this event is €10 for adults; €5 for kids and teens 12 and up; and free for kids under 12.
Later that evening from 8.30pm til late, Garry, with the help of the local harriers club, the community council and Kildorrery GAA, has organised a social evening with live bands, an 80s disco and tasty BBQ at Kildorrery Creamery.
Tickets for this are €10 and are available at the door, with lots of spot prizes up for grabs.
Father of three and husband to Julie, Garry received his diagnosis after initially experiencing discomfort when eating fruits like apples. His GP sent him for a scope in Mallow, which showed up the tumour leading to his diagnosis.
Since December 2015, Garry has undergone 10 sessions of chemotherapy, and he continues to be treated at The Mercy University Hospital.
“The last ten months have been a rollercoaster of emotions for me and my family – there’s shock, anger, and fear to deal with, as well as coping with treatment and learning about my diagnosis,” Gary said.
“My family and friends have been immense in supporting me, and I am eternally grateful for them. The care I have received under Professor Seamus O’Reilly and his team at The Mercy has been second to none, and I wanted to do something to show my gratitude.
“We have a great day and night planned on September 10 and everyone is welcome to join us and help us raise funds to make life a little more comfortable for patients as they undergo their cancer journey. It’s an uncomfortable experience physically as well as emotionally, so things like a more comfortable bed make a huge difference.”
Watch this space for further details and in the meantime, mark the date in your diary – Saturday, September 10.
