This article is from page 28 of the 2011-09-13 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 28 JPG
PARTICIPANTS are gearing up for the 22nd annual Clare Garda cycle, which will set from Ennis on Saturday.
Members of the Clare Garda division will be joined from colleagues in Mayo and Galway for the cycle, which will take in an 84 mile round trip from Ennis to Gort.
This year’s event will raise money for Sláínte an Chláir – Clare Cancer Support – a Kilnamona based group that provides provide support for people living with cancer, their families and friends in a safe, positive, caring and confidential environment.
Clare Cancer Support provides access to information about diagnosis, treatment and care..
Crusheen based Garda Declan Keavey said as many 40 Gardaí will take part in the cycle. He said people could contribute money at their local Garda station or to passing cyclists.
Previous cycles have raised money for Cahercalla Hospice, Clarecare and the Irish Wheelchair Association.
Garda Michael O’Halloran, one of a group Gardaí who organised the first cycle from Ennis to Salthill in 1989, explained that Sláinte an Chláir was chosen this year in memory of two colleagues Mick Mulryan (Scariff) and Sgt Michael Haran (Ennis) who passed away in recent months.
He said the Clare Garda division was delighted to be associated with the group. He said the event had been strongly supported by the Clare public.
“People in Clare are brilliant, absolutely fantastic. Without them it wouldn’t have been a success”, he added.
Ennis woman Teresa Gilmartin, who is in recovery from cancer, praised the high standard of support on offer at Sláinte an Chláir.
“There is a lot of loneliness around after the treatment. It’s like being in a new body to be honest.
“You don’t know what these symptoms mean because they are all different. You’re body has totally changed. Its great to chat to somebody who has been there just to get the re-assurance.”
She added, “Anything they can do they will do. They are just so supportive. They are just the most wonderful people.”
Martin McMahon, treasurer of Sláinte an Chláir, explained that 600 people in Clare are diagnosed with cancer every year.
For further information on Clare Cancer Support, call 1850 211 630 or 087 691 2396 or email admin@clarecancersupport.com