by Alan Jacques
SPORTS stars TJ Ryan and Joy Neville have togged out as ambassadors for a Limerick-based charity that provides financial support to families of critically ill children.
TJ, who is manager of the Limerick senior hurling team and Joy, who played a key role in the Irish women’s rugby team that won the Six Nations Grand Slam, are the new faces of Cliona’s Foundation. They join broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, the Foundation’s patron, in supporting the vital work carried out all over Ireland by the charity.
Both sports stars said they were proud to line as part of the Cliona’s Foundation team.
“Life is already difficult enough for the families of critically ill children without battling financial difficulties too. Parents who live outside Dublin and visit their sick child in a Dublin hospital can spend as much as €100 a day between travel expenses, petrol, parking and meals. That’s where Cliona’s Foundation come in, they work to ease the burden on families who are already pushed to their limit,” Joy said.
TJ added, “Cliona’s Foundation started off here in Limerick, but they now help families all over Ireland. They are a real local success story, and I’m proud to do my part to help them.”
The charity was founded in 2007 by Limerick couple Brendan and Terry Ring, in honour of their daughter Cliona who died of an inoperable brain tumour. To date, the Foundation has raised in excess of €600,000 supporting more than 210 families who have a child that is critically ill and are in need of additional financial support.
Welcoming the new ambassadors Brendan Ring, co-founder of Cliona’s Foundation said, “We’re thrilled to have TJ and Joy on board as ambassadors for Cliona’s Foundation. They’re both amazing sports people who have both been hugely successful in their separate fields, and we’re delighted to welcome them to the team.”
While many charities focus on children’s illnesses and their welfare, Cliona’s Foundation uniquely provides financial help with non-medical costs.
For more details log onto www.clionasfoundation.com.
