TRUST EVENT IN ALAN’S MEMORY
Dowdallshill GFC Clubrooms is the venue for a very worthwhile fundraiser on Friday which will help the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) which helps families to repatriate their loved ones who have died abroad.
Friday’s event is being held in memory of Dundalk man Alan McArdle who died almost a year ago and is being organised by Alan’s fa mily and friends.
One of the organisers, Marie Flynn, said the family wanted to do a fundraiser for KBRT to thank them for their kindness and assistance after Alan died and to raise awareness of the work of the organisation which has helped almost 100 families since it was set up three years ago.
Newry couple Colin and Eithne Bell set up the trust fund after their son, Kevin, was knocked down by a car and died from his injuries, aged just 26 in June 2013. The Bell family was astounded at the amount of financial support they received to help with their son’s repatriation and quickly realised that other families would experience the same emotional stress as well as financial distress at facing the prospect of repatriating their loved one.
The language barrier, in some instances, was also a factor that caused distress to families and the State assists through the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The Bell family set up the trust fund with the surplus cash left over after the repatriation bills were paid for Kevin and they have been at the forefront of raising awareness about the fund, which has helped around 100 families, many from Louth, at an extremely difficult time in their lives.
Marie said: ‘We appeal to everyone in their generosity to support this worthwhile cause and, in anticipation of your presence, thank you for your support.
‘If you are not able to make it on the night, tickets are on sale priced €10, from any family member. This is our way of remembering Alan and raising funds for this charity who helped the family at a very difficult time’.
The event, in Alan’s memory, takes place on Friday, August 12, at the Dowdallshill Clubrooms on the old Newry Road at 8.30pm and is hosted by Alan’s family and friends. Music will be provided by ‘ The Prime Suspects’ and light refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome to attend.
For more information on KBRT, see www.facebook.com/kevinbellrepatriationtrust.