Limerick woman recognised for 'living her life with no limits'
Kildimo native Aisling Arthur has been praised for championing a 'can-do attitude'
ONE Limerick woman with a “can-do attitude” has been recognised for “living her life with no limits”.
Aisling Arthur from Faha, Kildimo has been named an Enable Ireland 2024 Life With No Limits champion.
Aisling, who has a life-long passion for sport, is an Enable Ireland service user. She has competed in everything from boccia to wheelchair hurling.
The Life With No Limits campaign takes place during September each year.
It provides a platform for children and adults with disabilities who use Enable Ireland services to share their life experiences. The campaign also acts as a fundraiser for the charity.
“I have had a strong interest in sport since I was young and it’s always been a part of my life whether I’m watching or playing,” Aisling said.
“The first sport I played was boccia when I was in secondary school. Boccia has been a part of my life ever since.”
Boccia is a Paralympic sport introduced in 1984 and is similar to bowls.
Aisling said that her most recent sport that she has taken up is wheelchair hurling, despite starting at age 28.
“Being 28, I’m kind of oldish to start playing hurling but sure look! I strongly believe you can achieve anything you put your mind to,” Aisling said.
“At the moment, I’m training with the junior team while I build my strength, speed, and skills and in June, I was thrilled to play my first competition with the Munster Wheelchair Hurling Club.”
Dónal Kitt, Enable Ireland national fundraising manager said that the Life With No Limits campaign “is a pivotal [one] in the Enable Ireland calendar”.
“By spotlighting the lived experiences of people with disabilities, the campaign raises awareness and helps support inclusion,” Mr Kitt said.
“It is also crucial in raising funds for Enable Ireland's services. Now more than ever, we need your help to raise funds.
“Please support our vital services for children and adults with disabilities.”
Every year, Enable Ireland needs over €2m in additional funding to meet the costs of delivering their services.
2024 Life With No Limits champion Aisling concluded by saying: “Sport has played a key role in my life. It gives me more determination to keep going and reach my goals.
“If you’re thinking about playing sport or any other activity, just go and try it – give it a go! If you don’t try it you’ll never know. Most importantly, always believe in yourself.”