LITTLE Sophie Mulligan from Direen in county Limerick celebrated her first birthday earlier this month in hospital.
That’s where she has spent most of her short life so far, having been born with Pierre Robin Sequence which caused Sophie to have breathing difficulties and requiring a permanent Tracheostomy so that she could breathe.
And her parents have been by her side the whole time, which would not have been possible were it not for the Ronald McDonald House in Dublin, whoch provides accommodation and support for families to be with their very sick children.
That’s why one of the charities which will benefit from the proceeds of the Athea Vinatge Road run this Sunday, September 3, will go to the Ronald McDonald charity.
“Melissa and Alan have stayed by Sophie’s side relentlessly, moving to Dublin to be with their beautiful baby girl.,” a spokeswoman for the run organisers said.
“This would not have been possible without the help of Ronald McDonald House; without this charity they would not have been able to stay close to Sophie over the last 12 months. They have described it as being a safe and comfortable home from home, meals prepared daily for them while most of all providing a caring and supportive environment.
“Ronald McDonald House has made the most difficult and challenging journey for Melissa and Alan, easier and less stressful and they will be forever grateful to them. They have made friends for life in the house they have lived in for 12 months, who they now call their Ronald McDonald Family.”
Registration will begin at 11am for Vintage Cars and Modern/Vintage Tractors. There will be a junior run at 12pm for Go Karts, bikes and trikes.
Athea Vintage Club will proudly welcome Limerick Hurling All Star – Aaron Gillane who will visit in support of these amazing charities.
Mid-West Parkinson’s Association will also benefit from funds raised on the day.
Parkinson Association’s is a charity based in Dublin with 18 branches throughout Ireland, which currently depends on fundraising with no funding from the state.
Some of the classes the local branch Mid-West Parkinson Association offer are Movement to Irish Music and Voice and Breathing exercises to music.
Tickets for the vintage run are available now from the committee and on the day, with prizes galore including vouchers for The Longcourt House Hotel, AG Sports, Hampers, and more.
