Ring of Kerry – 160klm Sponsored Cycle for CRY

A huge thank you to the team who participated in the “Ring of Kerry” challenge for CRY on Friday, August 20th and Saturday, August 21st.  The team of 10 who travelled were –  brothers, Joe, John and Mark Timmons and their friends Mary Kate Murphy, Mick Smith, Paul Donnelly, Tommy Keenan, Brian Doyle, Dave Larkin (aka Fester!), Paul Lennon and all committed hours of personal time to this fundraiser. The group was made up of firemen from Tara Street, Nutgrove and Dun Laoghaire fire stations, John (Timmons) who teaches in Callan CBS,  Kilkenny, Mark who works in Treacys of Ballina and Mick a computer programmer from Allianz.  The team who cycled endured the 160 kilometres over two tiring days with 6 hours of pedal pushing each day.

The Yellow Jersey – on day one Tommy Keenan took the yellow! Day two saw Brian Doyle take yellow with Mick Smith coming home in  the yellow – and Mick a novice to Cycling!  None of the group are professional cyclists which conveyed the devotion of each cyclist individually. This was Mick Smith’s first cycle!  He is now buying a new bike for 2011!   

The Timmons brothers – Joe, Mark and John were greatly supported by their mother Betty Timmons and their sister Mary.

Special  thanks to Mary Kate Murphy, a student in Maynooth  who travelled and helped with day-to-day organising along with Dave Larkin (Fireman in Tara Street)  and Mark Timmons, coach driver with Treacys who drove the bus and transported the gear for the team. 

Michael and Marie Greene were delighted to meet with the group on both days and joined them at a couple of “stops” and saw at firsthand the dedication of each team member. 

Many thanks to all who took part and all who supported the Team.

Mrs Julie McMahon was recently appointed as the CRY representative for the Munster area.  Julie, who is a credit official with the Bishopstown Credit Union is married to TJ McMahon and has two children, Dara aged 5 and Oscar aged 1.  She lives in Ovens in County Cork.

Julie is the daughter of Michael & Marie Greene, Founders of CRY.

Regarding her involvement with CRY Julie said that “I am delighted to offer my services to CRY. I can empathise with families who have lost a young person or who have a member of their family living with a condition having lost my brother Peter at 15 years of age”.  I am very much looking forward to acting in a voluntary capacity for the Charity and I am pleased to acknowledge the support of Bishopstown Credit Union and my work colleagues”.

The Camino Ingles:
The Camino de Santiago de Compostela, also known as The Way of St James, is a pilgrimage route that has existed for  more than 1000 years. This Camino began when English and Irish pilgrims could not walk through France during the 100 years war and so sailed into the nearest port, Curuxeiras Docks at Ferrol. It was from here, that I began to walk the Camino on July 17th..

The Camino walk was chosen to mark the 4th., anniversary of our son Conor, who at 32  had died of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) on July 25th. 2006. Conor was a fluent Spanish and Portuguese speaker and always had a great love of Spain. Holy Year was to be celebrated in Santiago on July 25th the same day as Conor’s anniversary. He was christened Conor James after his maternal grandfather Jim O’Connor, so it seemed appropriate to do the walk, given that the dates were more than a co-incidence. This was the right time to go on the Camino.

Planning began in July 2009. At a family dinner we discussed what positive outcome might come from the walk, along with remembering Conor. We decided that a campaign would be launched to raise funds for a charity. On reading about the work that  CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) were doing – our decision was made.

A lot of research was put into the route. How long was each stage, where were the stops and how long it would take?. Maps were scrutinised and self help course in the local language Gallego was embarked upon. The plan was coming together on paper!! Fitness would be vital., so boots, socks, a 26 litre pack and ancillary gear were acquired and the training began. I walked 10k most morning at 6.00 a.m. with the 10kg pack.

By June Bank holiday weekend it was crunch time. The first day’s Camino was  29km. I had never walked that far in one day, so I set off to walk from my home to Kilsheelan village and back, with the full pack, on the Saturday - It was 29km. It went fine and took  6 hours. 6 weeks to go.

Then my Achilles tendon kicked up. I was out of action for 3 weeks. Panic set in but the Physio assured me that I would be fine in time.  2 weeks to go. My weight was down to 15st 11lb  and so on July 16th I flew to Spain and next morning I left  Ferrol to walk the 29km to Ponterdeume.

Day 1. Ferrol to Pontedeume
The first two days were the most difficult. I began to walk at 7.a.m  Outside Fene the going got tough, The temperature rose 35C and the route was up rough steep mountain tracks washed out by recent rains. The 10kg backpack seemed to weigh a ton but the only way was up. I  had seen no soul for three hours! I walked on and after 8 hours I crossed the medieval bridge into Pontedeume. I was exausted . The first day was over. I had dinner  and packed for the morning.  I was asleep at 9 p.m. The mantra of the Camino is: Walk, Eat and Sleep!  

Day 2: Pontedeume to Betanzos. 22 km
I woke to brght sunshine. I felt great, no aches or pains.. I got early mass and my sello (Crediential stamp) from the parish priest. I set off . Everyone I met called out ‘Buen Camino’. I walked 10km to Mino, a beautiful town with wonderful views of the large Betanzos estuary. After a wrong turn I saw two ladies. They  called me. ‘Senor Está indo na dirección incorrecta’ They introduced themselves as Magdalena and Carmen and before I knew it I was sitting drinking a glass of  red wine. Thin slices of delicious Serrano ham, cheese, eye watering onions and slices of sweet juicy tomatoes the size of saucers materialised. Both had perfect English. The impromptu lunch went on for 30 minutes but I had to leave. Kisses on both cheeks and ‘Buen Camio Brendan’ saw me off. I crossed the riverbed at O Porco and despite being on tarmac the hills were worse than yesterday. It got hotter and hotter so there was a palpable sense if achievement when I marched through the Pont Vella and up into the medieval town of Betantos. Elena in the Tourist Office had a  bed in Viones in a barn for the next night. All was in order I had lost some of my maps at a toilet break so tomorrow would be full of surprises.

Day 3: Bethanzos to Viones. 17Kms or thereabouts.
. After breakfast I left for Viones. I crossed the bridge at Limiñon meandering uphill through trees from there. The Camino waymarking (a scallop shell points the way) is very good. I felt good. When I passed the beautiful old San Tomé de Vilacoba  church, I had walked  21 km. I discovered villages have more than one name and next stop Vizoño was indeed the ‘ lost village ‘ of Viones. Hope soon turned to despair the refugio was full. Plan B. I called Antonio at the pension in Meson do Vento to  collect me at the bottom of the infamous hill 5km further on. He would drive me back next day to complete the walk. Dinner at 8 was with the family. Madre had prepared pulpo - octopus tentacles.– delicious. I hadn’t to pack. I was walking back up the hill next day. Bliss. I slept the sleep of the just or something akin to it.

Day 4: Climb Every Mountain.
Had a lie in. Got up at 8.30a.m. After breakfast of hot black coffee, glazed donuts with custard in the middle. Some diet !! Antonio dropped me at the bottom of the hill. It was steep but manageable. It still took me over two hours but I was in no hurry. I finally strolled down to Hospital de Bruma  where there is  a beautiful renovated auberge and, as the name suggests,  it was a hospital for pilgrims going back 1000 years. I walked to Meson do Vento and was back in time for lunch.A strong  wind, that bent the eucalyptus trees double, came up around 8 p.m.. Meson do Vento means House of the Wind!! I packed and drifted off to sleep to the sound of wind whistling through the trees.

Day 5: Meson do Vento to Ordes.
The  easiest day so far. I was up early. Antonio took my photo and I was off before 8 a.m. All downhill now. The view in front became more picturesque. Fields on corn, as high as the proverbial elephants eye, rolled out before me. Pine and eucalyptus trees lined the horizon. The road meandered on in front of me for miles. It was the first opportunity I got to reflect on what I was doing here. My son Brian had loaded some of Conor’s music on to my iPod. It began with Bob Dylan’s nasal tones singing Forever Young. This verse is on Conor’s headstone because that’s how he’ll always be to us: Forever Young.

I walked to Ordes accompanied by Conor’s eclectic mix::Rex Sixsmith, The Beatles, The Beachboys, Johnny Cash, Simon and Garfunkel, Nina Simone, Kris Kristofferson, The Eagles. The day got hotter 38 deg. – I didn’t mind. Arrived in Ordes: Two of the worst clowns I have ever seen were performing in the square. Their act was simple – run around a lot, fat clown drops stick, thin clown kicks him up the behind, run round a lot, thin clown drops his money fat clown kicks him up the behind. The kids loved it. I bought some fruit for lunch. 2 peaches, 2 bananas, a bag of cherries and strawberries – all for the sum of €1.37 !!    Every cloud……….

Day 5: Ordes to Marantes:
I walked to Marantes. The local council had ‘ moved’ the Camino  and though I was not lost  I didn’t know where I was – there is a subtle difference. I called  Kevin as I approached this huge orange Telekin warehouse. Kevin found it on Google Earth. He told me I was 2 km from destination. I stayed in the small Hotel San Vicente in Marantes just 10km from Santiago. The owner was kind, gentle spoken man- anxious to help . I asked about dinner. ‘Fish?’’ He said.  I had fish every night so far. When I came down there was a home cooked spread laid out.  The hotel did not do dinner but the manager had arranged for his elderly mother to come in and cook. She was a gracious lady who served without haste and had dressed and made up and dressed as if she was entertaining the king. Boundless, Galecian hospitality.

Day 6. Marantes to Santiago.
Early morning goodbyes. The walk was now partly on the N550, a busy road with lots of traffic. There are other pilgrims out in front of me and way behind as I climbed. I was buzzing and there was no effort in the walk. I was now just 5km from Santiago and going great..A young Brazilian man passed me, He had – of all things – a hand held GPS Sat. Nav.  Oh !  St James if you could see us now following your way via satellite. I came up over a rise – there in front of me were the spires of the cathedral in Santiago. I couldn’t believe it but I knew it wasn’t a mirage. I called Margaret. I was overcome and I couldn’t speak. I think I said ‘’ I’ve made it ! I can see the cathederal – I’ll  call you back’’.  I reached the cathedral steps and the six  days  - 150 km – 35 deg.C – struggling up hill – dehydrated -  all disappeared. I just wished Conor could be here. I had arrived in Santiago four years to the day after he last left home.

Margaret and Kevin flew in on Saturday. We went to mass in the cathedral on Saturday night. There was an estimated 150,000 in the main square but when the three of us walked the last leg together early on Conor’s anniversary on Sunday morning as we went up through the old medieval town, it was empty. We walked into the square for mass at 12 noon. Our other two sons Fintan and Brian had arranged to pause at noon and in spirit at least, we were all together again.

I’m back safe and sound. It was a wonderful experience. A milestone for all our family A heartfelt thanks to everybody who helped me walk the Camino. I had a list and on Sunday in Santiago I made a point of remembering all of you. I had walked the Camino Ingles and though I was alone in a physical sense, there were many family, friends, neighbours and sponsors and my son Conor, who had walked with me. Deus bendiga a todos. God Bless you all.

Brendan O'Mahony

CORK WOMENS MINI MARATHON 2010
Join the  CRY Team in Cork!

The 29th  Evening Echo Womens Mini Marathon takes place on Sunday 26th September 2010 at 1pm and CRY Ireland are calling out for Munster Ladies to sign up for the Mini Marathon and compete in aid of CRY Ireland to raise funds and awareness.  The race starts on Centre Park Road and will run over a 4 mile course including the Marina, Blackrock Village, Blackrock Road, Ballintemple and Monahan Road.

Entry for the mini marathon is now open – go on line at www.corkminimarathon.com – entry costs €12.00.  Closing date is midnight on Sunday September 19th.  There is a training schedule for all athletes online at www.corkmnimarathon.com.

Once you have registered please then contact Lucia in CRY Ireland at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 01 4525482 and we will provide you with Sponsorship Cards, Posters, T-Shirt & and Visor for the day

We are delighted to let you know that CRY – Cardiac Risk in the Young received the highest number of votes of the three shortlisted groups from AIB Ranelagh in the AIB Better Ireland Programme voting stage and was the winner of €5,000.00. AIB gives €10,000.00 to each of their 182 local branches to be shared among three shortlisted groups.  Recipients are chosen by a public text and online vote from a shortlist of causes in each area – CRY was a nominated charity for the Ranelagh branch of AIB.
Following a voting phase CRY topped the votes and received funding of €5,000.00 at the branch presentation. Variety Club was first runner up and received €3,000.00 and Rathmines Youth Project was second runner up receiving €2,000.00.
 A huge THANK YOU to everyone who voted in the AIB Better Ireland programme to help us win!

Pictured at the recent 2009/2010 AIB Better Ireland Programme Branch presentation for AIB Ranelagh is (l-r) Miriam Rogers, Branch Manager, AIB Ranelagh, Kevin Wall Variety Club of Ireland, Lucia Ebbs of CRY, Tara Smith, Rathmines Youth Project and Barbara O’Rourke, AIB Better Ireland Programme       Co-Ordinator, AIB, Ranelagh.

Family and friends of the late Frankie Pringle held a hugely successful Golf Outing in aid of CRY on 22nd May 2010 in the Millicent Golf Club, Clane, County Kildare.   Organised by Ken Pringle 50 teams registered to play in the 3 ball scramble.   Prizes were presented on the night in the Gondola Pub, Newcastle, County Dublin.  The winners on the day of first prize were Finian Fox, James O’Rourke and David Kennedy, 2nd on the day – Brian Muddimam, Ger Fox and Enda Hughes.  3rd place was Fergus Smith, Paul Smith and Eddie Higgins.   A raffle took place on the night also.    On Saturday 5th June the money raised was presented to Marie Greene  – the total raised on the day was €8,040.00, subsequent donations brought the grand total to  €8,150.00.       The pictures include photos taken on the day at Millicent Golf Club,  and the presentation of the proceeds to Marie Greene, CRY Trustee.

Monday 7th June 2010 was the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon and while the sun didn’t break through the support for CRY shone for everyone to see.

The Flora Women's Mini Marathon is the biggest all women's event of its kind in the world and this year was no different with over 40,000 women took to the streets of Dublin to either walk, job or run as part of this year’s race.

Just under 400 women kindly took part for CRY Ireland and following some quick snaps at the Conrad hotel, they headed to the line up with high hopes and steely determination. Laura Ryan from Rathfarnham was the first to cross the line finishing in a very impressive 47 minutes! Not long after the rest of the ladies for CRY were crossing the finish line in their droves with victory smiles for all to see before heading back to the Conrad for some well deserved refreshments.

Over 120 ladies travelled from Kilconnell in Country Galway to take part in memory of their beloved friend Sarah Malone and almost 100 people took part in memory of Carl Malone from Knocklyon. To every group and every girl who took part we thank you for all your support, your drive and of course your participation and we look forward to seeing you all again next year. We have lots of pictures on our Facebook page so make sure to pop over for a visit.

Lidl Ireland GmbH very generously donated bottled water to CRY for every Member of the CRY Mini Marathon Team.

Medical Representatives Annual Gala Dinner Charity Draw
Each year the President of the Medical Representatives' Institute of Ireland chooses a charity to benefit from the proceeds of the Annual Gala Dinner Charity Draw – with a substantial prize on offer valued at over €1,700, 2010 Gala Dinner delegates dug deep and raised €1,535.00 for CRY. Michael Greene, the Chairman of the CRY charity was a guest at the Gala Dinner.

Kelvina Galavan, President with the winner of the charity draw.....Kathleen Duffy.
 

The guests in attendance savoured a champagne reception with jazz music before enjoying a divine 4 course meal followed by a tantalising fashion show which included the in vogue colours and trends for the Spring / Summer collection from some of the top designers at House of Fraser including - Helen McAlinden, Lauren, Claudia Strater, Untold, Episode, Jaeger to name but a few.

“We are thrilled with the success of this years’ PURE STYLE and we welcome all the support we received at the luncheon.” Michael Green, Chairman of CRY Ireland.

This year the PURE STYLE committee were delighted to welcome Lorraine Keane on board as MC for the fashion show and lunch. Following the lunch Lorraine said, “I was delighted to be asked to MC this event and it was great to get a preview of this years Spring and Summer styles.

An impressive raffle and auction took place and which included some incredible prizes, from beauty treatments to fashion vouchers, also, all the guests received a generous goody bag full of treats to take home. Congratulations to Gillian Carter who won Best Dressed Lady which was kindly sponsored by Cosmedico.

CRY would like to take this opportunity thank everyone who very kindly donated to the goody bag and the raffle. In particular a huge thank you goes to House of Fraser, our partners for the event, Nicolas Mosse who kindly donated the beautiful pottery piece for the goody bags, Cosmedico who generously sponsored our Best Dressed Lady Competition and of course our organising committee consisting of Marie Greene, Lucia Ebbs, Aveen Harkin, Lorraine Murray, Roslyn O’Mahony, Frances Jones and Geraldine Carter.

We look forward to seeing you all again next year!

Friday the 26th March, with the support of Keith Noyes, Manager of The Underground at Kennedy’s of Westland Row saw a night of ROCK in aid of CRY which saw young talented musicians perform on the night.  The event was MC’d by Padraig Murray.
 
Pictured are some of the bands that performed on the night – ‘Gone Gonzo’ (formerly We Are Pirates), Zylo and Blue Fever.    Also pictured are Frances Jones, Colm Cummins, who organised the night and Frances & Colm’s son Alex who performed with his band ‘Gone Gonzo’.   Paul Noyes managed the door and the finances on the night.
 
Alex and his bandmates Ollie Moyles, Fergus Cahalane and John Gilbride are all  pupils of St. Michael’s in Ballsbridge and the evening was supported by friends, pupils of St. Michael’s and family.    Over €600 was raised on the night for CRY.   Michael Greene, Chairman attended the CRY AID and gratefully accepted the funds on behalf of the Charity.
 

Every year in Early March, adventure seeking runners have the opportunity to take a spectacular cruise through a beautiful city and this year was no different as it took place in the idyllic city of Barcelona on Sunday the 7th of March.
 
This year CRY had dedicated ambassadors, Brian, Anthony and Mary Therese Durkan, who each, ran the marathon ahead of their goal times. Mary Therese finished in 4hrs 52 minutes and Anthony and Brian finished together in 3 hrs 56 minutes. Brian’s wife Michelle along with Tony and Mary Durkan were also in Barcelona supporting all three. 
 
The three received a motivational boost once they hit the 32km mark as they met a huge Irish flag flying from a tree and Traditional music. Brian, Anthony and Mary Theresa later found out the significance of the tree at the 32 km marker. Tragically Colin Dunne had died from sudden heart failure at the 32km point while running the marathon in 2009 and 29 of Colin's friends and family had returned to Barcelona including Colin's fiancée Yvonne to pay tribute to him.
 
The Cry Committee would like to express their warm thanks to Brian, Anthony and Mary Therese for their huge effort to raise funds for CRY.

CRY would like to hugely thank Neil Harper for his involvement in the auctions at both Pure Style and the Cry Rugby Luncheon. Neil got everyone involved during the bidding process, his humour and wit keeping everyone on their toes. His ability to keep the bidders bidding was highly entertaining and he certainly added to the calibre of each event. Thanks once again to Neil.

July 25th 2006, was a tragic day for the family and friends of Conor O’Mahony who suddenly died at his apartment in Dublin.

On the 17th of July members of Conor’s family and friends are undertaking a sponsored pilgrimage 120km walk from Ferrol in Galicia to Santiago de Compostela to raise funds for CRY. They will arrive in Santiago at 12 noon on July 25th.

Conor had a life long interest in Spain and he spoke, both, Spanish and Portuguese fluently. He was also a frequent visitor to Spain. This year, 2010 is Holy Year in Santiago de Compostela and on July 25th, Conor’s 4th anniversary, the Feast of St. James will be celebrated there.

CRY recently held a very successful rugby lunch on Friday the 12^th of March in the Elm Park Golf Club in Donnybrook.

In attendance were guest speaker Hugo Mac Neill, RTE sports correspondent Jacqui Hurley and former Irish Rugby International Neil Francis.

Guests who attended that charity lunch were treated to a champagne reception followed with a delicious four course meal with wine followed by an enthralling speech from guest of honour, Hugo Mac Neill.

Attendees had the opportunity to bargain for the red hot tickets to the Ireland v Wales match and also Ireland v Scotland in the RBS 6 Nations title race and also the upcoming Leinster v Claremount with hospitality in an auction which was kindly led by auctioneer Neil Harper, his humour and wit keeping everyone on their toes. His ability to keep the bidders bidding was highly entertaining and he certainly added to the calibre of the lunch.

A raffle also took place also and there were some amazing prizes to be won. CRY would like to express their gratitude to those who supported the raffle.

On behalf of CRY, the CRYP centre and all the committee members – we would like to thank those of you who supported the event and that you will join us again for our future rugby fundraising events!

Dr. Deirdre Ward, Consultant Cardiologist & Director of the Centre	Dr. David Mulcahy, Consultant Cardiologist and Project Director

 

Michael Greene, Chairman of Cardiac Risk in Young	Michael Greene, Dr. Deirdre Ward and Dr. David Mulcahy

Speaking at launch of  the Annual Report  of  The  Centre  for Cardiac  Risk in Younger Persons,  Dr.  David Mulcahy, Consultant Cardiologist and Project Director said 

' When I approached  my  colleagues  Prof.  Ian Graham  (of the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Tallaght)  and Prof.  Michael Walsh  (of St.  James’ Hospital ) to propose this project in 2004 little did we know that in such a short space of time the CRYP Centre would have made such spectacular progress.

It is just under 3 years since I and my colleagues met with the Board of Trustees of the Cardiac Risk in the Young [CRY-Ireland] charity and put the proposition that they join as partners in this project.

In just 3 years we have gone from a standing start to presenting you with the results of our first year since we moved the operation into its own dedicated building on the Campus of Tallaght Hospital.

This report is not just about stating what has been achieved. It is also about how we see the future for this project

I want to pay tribute to Dr. Deirdre Ward and her staff for the tremendous work they have done in the past two years, and to the Board of Tallaght Hospital who have supported this project from the outset. 

I also want to express my thanks to the Trustees of CRY for their continuing support and to all of the hundreds of families , many of whom have turned what has often been a tragic loss of a loved one into galvanising support for the CRYP Centre”.

Dr. Deirdre Ward, Consultant Cardiologist and Director of the CRYP Centre stated that since the Centre initially commenced operations in 2007, just under 2000 patients have been evaluated.

“Over 800 patients from 350 families were seen in the first phase of the operation. In the first full year of operating from our own dedicated building, 1380 patients were evaluated. Patients have come from all over the 26 counties.

As there is no sign of any decline in the demand for our services, we are expecting to see 1500 hundred patients this year, and will ideally need to expand our capacity in the coming years even further.

In addition to the 3 all-day clinic in the Centre in Tallaght a clinic has been running twice monthly in St. James’ Hospital and we are also looking at the possibility of developing a satellite service in St. Vincent’s University Hospital” Dr. Ward concluded. Colleagues in St Vincent’s and St James’ Hospitals already provide expert back-up to the Centre.

Mr. Michael Greene, Chairman of CRY stated that the establishment and the development of the Centre represented the single most important milestone in the Charity’s short history.

“I want to pay tribute to all of our friends and our families who by their have made this a reality. Without your continuing support it would have been very difficult to come as far as we have.

Our thanks also to Dr. Ward and her staff and to the Board and Management of Tallaght Hospital”

The Centre for Cardiac Risk in Younger Persons was set up to provide rapid and comprehensive assessment to families where sudden death has occurred of likely cardiac cause – in many of these cases the cause of death may be an inherited problem and other family members could be at risk. The Centre also evaluates young people with symptoms such as unexplained blackouts, prolonged palpitations or chest pain and/or shortness of breath which significantly limits ability to exercise. Such symptoms may indicate underlying heart disease. The equipment and staffing of the Centre is almost entirely funded by charitable donations and fundraising efforts. The service is free to patient regardless of financial circumstances or geographical location.

Over 5,000 people suffer sudden cardiac death in Ireland every year, of which 60 to 80 are young people under 35 years old. Cardiac disease in young people is mostly due to inherited heart disease or birth defects ( congenital heart disease ). Awareness of sudden cardiac death has increased in the last few years due to the sudden deaths of high-profile athletes.

A conservative estimate is that over 10,000 people in Ireland carry genes for inherited heart disease, more often than not unknowingly.

ENDS.

For further information : Michael Greene, Chairman of CRY at 01 452 5482

Karen Morgan and Tom McCormack of Limelight Communications on 01 668 0600

CRY recently held another fun filled Fashion Fix evening in the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel.

France Jones, an image consultant, welcomed all the ladies and discussed the all important do’s and don’t’s when it comes to fashion. With the help from some volunteers from the audience she demonstrated colour choice dependent on skin tone, shopping trends, dressing for your body shape and much more!

The Fashion Fix evening included clothes kindly provided by Serendipity, Goods and Caza Choo.

A raffle also took place also and there were some amazing prizes to be won.

On behalf of CRY, the CRYP centre and all the committee members – we would like to thank those of you who supported the event and that you will join us again for our future fashion fundraising events!

For more information on Frances Jones visit www.imagematters.ie

We are very grateful to the Bandon Rotary and Phil Murphy for their kind donation.

Kick start your year with CRY

An excellent way to kick start the new year is to sign up to the Lifestyle sports – Adidas Dublin marathon. We are encouraging everyone to make that resolution to run the 31st Dublin marathon on October 25th which can change your lifestyle for good.

The 26 mile marathon is run through the historic Georgian streets of Dublin. 2009 saw a record number of entrants to the Dublin marathon challenge with the hundreds of men and women taking to the streets of Dublin for charity. The reception from the many spectators lining the streets has provided encouragement for the participants from start to finish and is what gives it its name, the “Friendly marathon.”

CRY are seeking volunteers to take part in the Dublin marathon 2010 and raise some vital funds for this great cause. If you are interested or would like more information please contact Lucia at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 01 452 5482.

Anyone can do a marathon with a little motivation and a training plan to suit your lifestyle, and of course, everyone should get a health check before embarking on any new fitness regime.

Information and entry fee details are on the website www.dublinmarathon.ie

Darren Connaughton took part in the recent Gaelforce 6, which was back for the fourth year, took place in August and included hiking, running, biking and kayaking as part of the multisport race adventure. The course was set in Co. Mayo and ran over 65KM from Glassilaun beach, south-west of Killary Harbour to Westport.

Darren raised €1,940 for CRY as part of the GF6 Challenge and would like to thank all those who kindly donated prizes to his raffle including Decides County Bar, Liffey Valley Fitness, Shamrock Rovers FC, Currys, Killarney Crystal, The Leinster Rugby Team, as well as the patients and staff at CRYP Centre.

A big thank you goes to Darren from all here at CRY for his support and to those that helped him take part!!

On Sunday 22nd of November the Fran Leonard Tournament saw the Erins Isle GAA under 10s and Intermediate Team take on O’Dwyers GAA. The tournament was created in memory of Fran Leonard who died suddenly while playing for the Erins Isle Intermediate team 3 years ago.

Marie Greene, Co-Founder of CRY was at the trophy presentation where she highlighted the never ending work that CRY does to save lives in Ireland every day. She also spoke of the importance of fundraising before presenting cups to both the captain of the under 10s and the captain of the intermediate team.

Erin’s Isle GAA Club are committed to raising awareness of Cardiac Risk in the Young and the Senior Camomile team are to take part in the 2010 Mini Marathon in aid of CRY while the Intermediate Football Squad will be taking part at Triathlon also to raise funds for the charity.

For more information visit  www.erinsislegaa.com

Congratulations to Helen O’Donnell who recently had an article published in WIN, the Journal of the Irish Nurses Organisation. Helen is a Cardiac Nurse Specialist in the CRYP Centre and her article on Brugada Syndrome appeared in the November issue of the Journal. Well done Helen!

The Annual Memorial Service organised by the SCDY parents support group under the Irish Heart Foundation takes place on Saturday 12th December at 2pm.
Contact Irish Heart Foundation at 016685001 for further details.

A big thank you goes to Martin King from Today FM’s Breakfast Show following his selection of CRY for ‘The Weekly Bet’ feature. Each week the show has a €100 bet for charity courtesy of Boylesports - at the end of the month October all the winnings went to CRY. Many thanks also to Boyle Sports for steering the Martin in the right direction helping us win €700!

Frances Jones with volunteer Margaret Field	Geraldine Carter and Gillian Carter

The Fashion Fix evening held in aid of CRY on Thursday 5th November was a great success – with fashion and fun being had by over 100 guests at this unique fundraising evening.

France Jones, an image consultant, welcomed guests and discussed the all important do’s and don’t’s when it comes to fashion. With the help from some volunteers from the audience she demonstrated colour choice dependent on skin tone, shopping trends, dressing for your body shape and much more!

The fashion fix evening included clothes kindly provided by Serena’s in Sandymount.

A raffle also took place also and there were some amazing prizes to be won including – afternoon tea at the Shelbourne Hotel, a L’occitane hamper and a complimentary session with Frances Jones to name but a few.

On behalf of CRY, the CRYP centre and all the committee members – we would like to thank those of you who supported the event and that you will join us again for our future fashion fundraising events!

For more information on Frances Jones visit www.imagematters.ie

Crowds at the Fashion Fix	Una Davis, Margaret Field, Fionnula Kelly and Anne Atkin

Bronagh Walsh and Michelle Durkin	Colour Demonstrations

Lucia Ebbs and Aveen Harkin	Rosalyn O' Mahony and Michael Greene

Marie Greene

CRY would like to give a huge thanks to Stuart Cinnamond who took part in this year’s Dublin Marathon.  Stuart took part in memory of his friend Marcus, who died suddenly in Thailand just over a month ago and to raise awareness for Cardiac Risk in the Young.

John O'Hagan also completed the Dublin City Marathon for CRY and CRY would like to take this opportunity to thank Stuart and John for their participation in the marathon which raised both funds and awareness for CRY.

A big thanks also goes to Chris Mooney who took part in the Dublin City Marathon in aid of CRY, having to endure some very painful blisters after 10 miles. He kept going through the pain even though he knew he wasn’t going to get finished anywhere near the time he wanted….it was obviously more about finishing and the charity than anything else!

Well done to all!

This year was the 30th anniversary of the Dublin Marathon and it was a great day with a fantastic turnout of supporters and the atmosphere was buzzing.  Please see photos from the event & from John’s and Stuart’s progress during the race:

John O'Hagan.    Stuart Cinnamond.

Stuart Cinnamond, 2009 Dublin City Marathon.

 Stuart Cinnamond, 2009 Dublin City Marathon.

CRY hosts Christmas Country Ball

Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY - http://www.bearingpoint-ireland.com//) is appealing to people all over Ireland to have a BALL at their inaugural Christmas Country ball on Friday 27th November.  CRY are hosting their “Christmas Country Ball” fundraiser in the luxurious Ardenode Country House Hotel, Kildare.  The black tie event, one not to be missed includes a delectable 4 course dinner (wine included) and great musical entertainment from Funky Junction along with many exciting prizes to be won in the raffle.

Michael Greene, Chairman CRY said;

“This year we are hoping that our supporters will all come together to celebrate CRY.  We are working hard this year to raise crucial funds for the CRYP Centre to ensure ongoing care for patients and families.  We thoroughly appreciate people’s support – which is so essential to keep the centre running”.

All monies raised from the ball will go directly to The CRYP Centre, which officially opened last November. The Centre aims to screen a minimum of 1,600 young patients annually free of charge.   It is solely financed by fundraising activities and generous donations that are all of which essential to keep the centre running. The CRYP Centre is the only one in the country to offer a full-time service dedicated to evaluation of inherited heart disease and cardiac disease in younger persons.

For further information contact Lucia Ebbs at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Every month, the Employees of Siemens and Fujitsu give a percentage of their salary to a charity fund. At the end of each quarter the staff members nominate a charity of choice. Cry have been nominated and received  a generous donation. A huge thank you to all the staff.

Please see picture of Sharon Harris of Siemens and Don O’Brien, Trustee of CRY.

At this year’s Cork Mini Marathon, CRY had a team of over 40 ladies. It was a great day, the weather was amazing and the atmosphere was great.
CRY would like to extend a huge message of thanks to all the ladies who took part in the Cork women's mini marathon last weekend. We hope you all enjoyed yourselves as much as we did!

Please see photos below of some of the CRY Team members:

  Claire McCarthy Youngest Competitor at 11years of age

 Claire McCarthy with her two sister, cousin and Aunt.

 L-R Dr Fionnuala Quigley, Cry Trustee and Friend racing for the finish line

  L-R Julie McMahon from Cork and Carol Benner from Tralee

To see more photos from the day please click here.

Catherine Lawlor’s School of Art hosted an art exhibition in aid of CRY on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September. The exhibition was officially opened by Dublin born Artist Alan Phelan.

It was a great weekend enjoyed by all who attended. An amazing sum of €2,550 was raised for CRY and the CRYP centre. CRY would like to say a huge thank you to Alan Phelan for opening this event, all the guests who were there on the day to support the charity and a special thank you to Catherine Lawlor and her talented students for hosting this great exhibition for a great cause.

Please see some of the photographs from the day.

            Alan Phelan                                Catherine Lawlor, Alan Phelan and Marie Greene

         Jean Tyler and Kathleen Kenny                                       Lavina O’Leary

        Catherine Lawlor and Alan Sheppard                                 Emer Dignam