Run & Roll: Together at Last

It was a very special occasion as it was the first time all members and staff could be together in one group since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Although we continued to support our members throughout COVID -19 through outreach and virtual supports, we missed seeing everyone together at our community centre.  

The fundraiser was very successful, but the real highlight of this event was the laughter, fun and reconnection of all the wonderful people who access our services in Meath. 

Not only did our members have the opportunity to come together, Leas Cathaoirleach Francis Dean and Local TD and Minister Damien English, and his team joined us on the track. However, as avid Meath supporters, everyone was very excited to see the Meath Minor winning manager Cathal O’Bric and two of the stars from the Meath Minor team Jack McConnell and Louis Collins, join us for our fundraiser. 

By the end of the event, everyone was tired and sweaty after they ran, rolled and walked many different distances on the fabulous running track at Claremont Stadium from 2km up to 11km.

The members and staff in Meath also used this special occasion to launch their new accessible bus, which Meath Co. Council majority funded through the Community Amenity Grant Scheme for 2020. Our staff, members and supports helped raise the remaining balance of the funding required through various fundraisers. This new vehicle will really enhance the service and provide excellent comfort on journeys for our members in the future. 

After a long day of joy, exercise and reconnection, service coordinator Eleanor O’Neill says: “I would just like to acknowledge the efforts of all the Irish Wheelchair Association staff over the past 18 months. Everyone has put their shoulder to the wheel and helped maintain, devise and develop services in Meath; it’s a real privilege to work alongside you all within this wonderful organisation.”