Once again two families in Youghal, who lost a loved one to cancer, will honour her memory on December 21 by organising a 5K-remembrance run to raise funds for four local children who are facing their own personal challenges on a daily basis.
Youghal-based community group, Phil’s Road Run, was set up by two local families; the Terrys and the Healy’s, to raise funds for cancer care and various other worthy causes in remembrance of Phil Terry, who lost her battle with the disease on December 21, 2012.
The run this year is supporting 17-month-old Conor Kenneally, Thomas and Alex Lawlor, and Jaime Hennessy.
Conor Kenneally aspirates which causes his lungs to fill with fluid, which is a life-threatening condition as it could potentially drown him. To help stop the risk of the condition causing these life-threatening issues Conor is tube fed and has been since he was four weeks old. His lungs are severely damaged as a result of this treatment. Conor vomits on a daily basis and currently is awaiting surgery in Crumlin hospital.
Thomas and Alex Lawlor are two brothers aged seventeen and eight years of age who both have been diagnosed with Autism. Thomas was diagnosed in 2006 and has overcome many different obstacles throughout the years with the last two years being particularly challenging. Despite his challenges, he has always remained the happy and contented young man that his family and friends know and love.
Alex is eight years old and received his diagnosis in 2014. As a family this brought new challenges, as both boys are completely different in how their diagnosis affects their lives. Alex is a wonderful young boy who faces daily struggles and needs a lot of support in school and home. The boys attend St Johns special school in Dungarvan and South Abbey national school where they both receive amazing support.
Jamie Hennessy is seven years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2013. This neurological disorder affects his speech making him preverbal (few words). Last year Jamie would have been nonverbal but therapy and work done both at home and in school has helped to bring on his eye contact, concentration and speech.
As a result of play therapy, speech and occupational therapy, gentle pushing, time, patience, love and with help of a fantastic school, St John’s in Dungarvan, Jamie has made incredible improvements in social communication and interaction, which has lessened his frustration in trying to express himself. Jamie is making huge progress daily but needs support to continue this improvement
Autism is a lifelong neurological developmental disability. It affects the area of brain that is responsible for social communication and interaction.
Phil’s Road Run will once again start in Dermot Hurley Estate, Youghal, on December 21 at 7:30pm and pre-registration is €5 for anyone sixteen or over with all kids free but they must be accompanied by an adult for insurance purposes.
For further information or contact details see Phil’s Road Run Facebook page or email philsroadrun@gmail.com
