Ring of Kerry Cycle to support Ian
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD Ian O’Connell and his family have been through a difficult year following Ian’s serious cycling accident in Killarney last August. But Ian’s courage in the face of adversity has resonated far and wide with communities and sporting organisations who have rallied together to assist in his recovery.
The young Spa man has been included as a beneficiary of this year’s Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle and the money raised will be lodged to ‘The Ian O’Connell Trust’ set up by Spa GAA Club. The fund will be administered by three trustees who will help meet Ian’s ongoing needs and the cost of any necessary adaptations to his home.
Ian is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Rehabilitation Centre in Dun Laoghaire and is due home soon where his ongoing and lengthy rehabilitation programme will commence. Ian suffered damage to his neck and spine after falling from his bike while cycling with friends in the Muckross area of Killarney National Park on August 16 last.
The Spa GAA Club’s campaign was very generously supported and like so many people, the organisers of the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle have been moved by Ian’s story and are now looking for as many fundraisers as possible to cycle on his behalf.
“Ian is so inspirational and his attitude is very positive. He’s also in regular contact with his peers and this is invaluable to him,” said Jim Gleeson, campaign organiser
Prior to his accident Ian worked in the Killarney Park Hotel and his colleagues there are dusting off their bikes to support their friend and colleague for this year’s cycle.
“We were devasted last August when Ian was injured, but since then Ian has inspired us with his amazing positivity, the words “I can’t” do not exist for Ian,” General Manager Niamh O’Shea said.