Fundraising climb of Keeper Hill

Hundreds of supporters have taken to the climbing of the majestic Keeper Hill to show their appreciation for the care devoted to a woman that they don't want to forget.

Marcus Ryan's mum, Josephine, who passed away in 2019, seven years after the early onset of dementia at the age of 57 years, was remembered in a very special way on Saturday last.

The native of Lackamore, Newport, Josephine Ryan (née Murphy) lived with her husband, Sean and their family at Shallee, and the sponsored walk was to raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

More than 250 people, many of whom had come from various distant parts of the country, braved the rain and murky weather conditions for the cause.

It was initially hoped to raise about €4,000, but such was the scale of participation and generosity that the fund had topped €26,000 by the end of the day . . . and is still rising.

Marcus explained: “My mum was diagnosed in 2012 with early onset dementia at the age of 57. In 2009 she noticed changes in her visual perception and started experiencing hallucinations. We knew that all was not right, and she underwent many reviews, tests, and consultations before finally getting the diagnosis in 2012.”

The co-operation of everyone was astounding with a fleet of buses operating between Killoscully Village and the entrance to Ballyhourigan Wood, from where the mountain climb started.

From just after 10am relays of walkers were on the way to the peak of Keeper Hill, and numbers continued to set out on the climb until after midday. The last of the participants returned to the village shortly after 3pm.

Meanwhile, a feast of food at the Community Centre in Killoscully awaited the participants on their return, which many marvelled at and everyone appreciated, many of them tired and wet following the endurance test in less than favourable conditions.

Marcus added: “Over the eight years my mum, and we as a family, were provided with supports and services from ASI that we know to be invaluable to those living with dementia. The aim of this walk was to raise funds which will go towards direct care provision (daycare, homecare, respite, and information and advisory services) that the society provides to those living with dementia and their families, carers and communities.”

Thanks has been extended to everyone who braved the conditions to participate, those who provided the shuttle bus service, stewards and marshals and the team of women who prepared and served the food at the Community Centre in the village.