AN OPPORTUNITY TO REMEMBER IAN

GNEEVEGUILLA MOTHER PRAISES SUPPORT NETWORK AFTER SON’S DEVASTATING SUICIDE

THE upcoming Ian O’Riordan Remembrance Walk in Gneeveguilla will raise funds for a charity that was there for Eileen O’Riordan, her family members, and students of Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore on their toughest days.

On January 14, 2013, life changed drastically for Eileen when her 16-year-old son Ian died by suicide. Speaking to The Kerryman, Eileen described Ian as ‘a gentle, popular teenager’ and she hopes to mark what would have been his 21st birthday in a fitting manner.

A remembrance walk carrying Ian’s name will depart from outside Petro’s bar in Gneeveguilla at 3pm on Saturday, February 11, and will take its participants on a five kilometre ring around the Gneeveguilla area.

“It was the most devastating time for me and my family, as well as Ian’s school friends; they were all only children at the time,” Eileen said.

“It was with the support and help of Southwest Counselling that we got through that horrible time - they were there for my family, and they’re still there today.”

Eileen added that the service was fantastic to Ian’s friends as well.

“At any time, short notice or not, Southwest Counselling would arrange to see these youths, and they guided them through it all.”

The February 11 walk serves as an opportunity to remember Ian, who loved rugby, rowing, horseback riding and spending time with friends.

“We hope to get as many people as possible to come out on February 11 to mark his birthday and to raise funds for a service that proved a tremendous support during a very difficult time,” Eileen continued.

“The public’s participation would mean a lot to friends and family, and hopefully the funds we raise will help more youths in the years ahead.”

Registration will be one hour beforehand and the participation fee is €10.