Nenagh walk for Mairéad this Sunday

A Nenagh walk in support of local woman Mairéad Gill and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association will take place this Sunday, April 3.

Mairéad, of The Peppermill and Pepes restaurants, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in August 2020. Coinciding with RTÉ broadcaster Charlie Bird's Croagh Patrick climb this weekend, she is hoping to be joined by a large local turnout in raising funds and awareness for the IMNDA.

The 5km walk will set out from the CBS Secondary School and take in the streets of Nenagh and surrounds of the town. A ‘family fun day’ is planned with face painting and balloon modelling from 1pm, while Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be in attendance along with Paulo the magician. There will also be musical entertainment with Nenagh Ormond Brass Band and refreshments served back at the CBS after the walk.

This is the first of three events planned by Mairéad in supporting the motor neurone charity, which is 80% reliant on fundraising to deliver its services. There are also plans for an auction night at Reidy's of Newtown in the late spring and a concert at St Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh in early autumn.

And this week Charlie Bird sent a special video message to Mairéad, in which he wished her well with her venture in support of the IMNDA. “It is a cause very close to my heart and I wish you every success with it,” he said, speaking with the aid of cloned voice technology. “Best wishes, Mairéad; another great example of extending the hand of friendship. Well done, and thanks. Charlie.”

Mairéad, who is also participating in research aimed at perhaps one day finding a cure for motor neurone disease, will lead out the walk on her mobility scooter this Sunday at 2pm. Registration will be open at the CBS hall from 1pm (please note limited parking availability). There is no entry fee on the day but donations will be gratefully accepted.

Fundraising cards are available at The Peppermill and Pepes, or by contacting Albert Purcell on 087 2430546.

You can also make an online donation at www.idonate.ie/MotorwithMairead

#motorwithmairead