The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
WALKING WITH JAMES FOR MOUNTAIN RESCUE
IN many ways it was the perfect end to what has been a torrid year for James Cahill from Ballycasheen, Killarney as close to a 1,000 people converged on Muckross on Saturday morning for a special seven kilometre walk in aid of Kerry Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT).
KMRT came to James’ assistance after his horrific 40 foot fall from Carrantuohill in July 2016 and such was the feeling of admiration for KMRT’s handling of James’ rescue, that his friends decided to hold Saturday’s walk to help raise funds.
James is learning to walk again without assistance and he even took part in a small part of Saturday’s trek through Muckross.
“The day was fantastic and we had a great crowd. The response from people was phenomenal with a huge turnout of people from all walks of life,” James said.
“This walk increases KMRT’s profile substantially and we had some refreshments afterwards in the Muckross Gardens Restaurant where I thanked everyone for coming and especially the people behind KMRT,” he added.
James described his recovery as ‘solid’ rather than spectacular but that he was getting there. “I’m walking on my own again and I even did some of the walk. Progressing away nicely is how I’d describe it.”
Meanwhile, Cathal Cudden, a coordinator with KMRT, described the day as a great social event and one that connected with the people of James’ locality.
“It’s great to get it out there about what we do and the whole community aspect was important as it was a way of connecting with the Spa area where James is from. Many people say that they don’t know much about KMRT until something happens to someone they know, so from that perspective this kind of profile is most welcome,” said Cathal.