Limerick man teams up with former All-Ireland winner to take on the Camino for CRY

TWO men who have both lost loved ones all too young are preparing to conquer the iconic Camino de Santigo in Spain.

Five-time All-Ireland winning Kerry footballer Aidan O’Mahony and Monagea man Liam Herlihy will raise crucial funds for cardiac risk in the young (CRY Ireland).

CRY trustee, Liam, sadly lost his daughter Niamh as a result of sudden cardiac death at just 21- years-old in 2011.

Ever since, Liam and his family are screened regularly at the CRY Centre and work tirelessly to raise funds to support the charity.

Aidan lost his brother John, aged in his early 50s, after he passed away suddenly in February. John’s loss is keenly felt by family and friends in Clarina where he had resided and was a popular member of the local community.

Aidan and Liam are asking people to join them for the experience of a lifetime on September 6 and help raise funds for CRY Ireland.

The charity provides assistance to individuals and families impacted by sudden cardiac death and those living with inherited cardiac conditions. Support is extended through our family support programme.

Ahead of the Camino challenge is Monagea’s annual charity event in aid of CRY Ireland in memory of Niamh Herlihy and Darra O’Donovan, who was just 15, when he passed away. The two Monagea natives both died in 2011.

It takes place on the Saturday of the May Bank Holiday weekend, May 4. There is a 50km or 100km cycle or a 5km or 10km run or walk. For full details see the Monagea for CRY Remembering Niamh and Darra Facebook page.

Speaking at the launch of the Camino For CRY initiative, Aidan said the Camino trip provides an avenue to escape and detach from reality.

“It serves as a space to commune with nature while simultaneously delving into an adventure of self-discovery and focusing on personal well-being. The journey becomes even more meaningful as it contributes to raising funds for CRY Ireland,” said Aidan.

He continued: “Leading the team on two previous occasions in 2019 and 2022, I witnessed the start of lifelong friendships and was profoundly touched by the stories shared by those impacted by sudden cardiac death, highlighting the invaluable support provided by CRY.

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“I am excited to participate yet again this year and extend an invitation for others to join me on this meaningful endeavour."

Lucia Ebbs, CEO of CRY Ireland, said those who have been affected and taken part in previous years have found the Camino journey to be a valuable moment to be able to come together and create new connections with similar people.

“This fundraiser has proven instrumental in aiding CRY's mission, providing crucial support to those affected.

“This year's contributions will enable us to sustain our commitment to families dealing with the aftermath of sudden cardiac death, offering essential services such as bereavement supports and our CRY freephone helpline which is an invaluable resource for those in need through our family support programme,” said Lucia.

For more information or to register your interest, please visit cry.ie