THE BIRCHES OPENS ITS DOORS AFTER BIG FUNDRAISING EFFORT
ALZHEIMER DAY CARE CENTRE UP AND RUNNING THANKS TO HARD WORK OF LOCAL PEOPLE
June 2000
THE Birches Alzheimer Day Care Centre is officially opened, following a fundraising effort which yielded €400,000.
The crowds which gather for the ceremony represent a cross-section of the community, from carers, clergy and public representatives to voluntary organisations.
An ecumenical service and blessing, celebrated by Bishop Gerard Clifford, Fr Gerard Tremer and Rev Mark Wilson opens proceedings.
A commemorative stone is unveiled by Minister Dermot Ahern, who says: ‘ This is an absolutely tremendous day, and I am astounded to see the finished product, especially when you consider that it was only 21 months ago that the genesis of this idea was born.
‘Indeed, it is difficult to conceive that just a year ago I was given the opportunity to turn the first sod on this site, and I’m delighted to officially open this impressive building.’
The minister adds a great deal of gratitude is owed to the people who brought it to fruition so quickly.
‘I must say that what is happening here is because of voluntary efforts by the people whose lives have been touched by this disease.’
He promises further assistance from the government for the facility.
Kathleen Taaffe, of the North Louth Alzheimer’s Fundraising Project, speaks of how a dream of those on the committee has become a reality.
‘Initially, this began for me when my sister Mary and I went about setting up a support group for Alzheimer sufferers.
‘ The meetings were very successful, but the idea that carers needed a break from looking after their loved ones gradually came to the fore.’
A day care centre was identified as a way of doing this.
After a public meeting in 1997, a fundraising committee was set up, and by late 1998 a site at Priorland Road was found.
‘From that, we have this wonderful state-of-the-art centre that I know any carer will be delighted with.’
Kathleen pays tribute to John Higgins, chairman of the fundraising committee, for ‘spending day, night and weekends on this project’.
John adds that the day care centre has turned out magnificently.
‘Everyone here can be justifiably proud of it, as without your help and assistance this building would not be here, be certain of that.
‘ Thanks also to the people of North Louth who have made this happen through their support and fundraising, and to all those who took part in the casino nights, mini marathon and tea days.’
John also extends gratitude to Louth county manager John Quinlivan and the county council for not only a large grant which kick-started the fundraising but continued support as well.
He pays tribute to Brian Murphy and all members of the local branch.
‘ This was very much a team effort, and we must not forget that.
‘I truly hope that patients and carers will get great satisfaction from this building,’ he concludes.
An estimated 900 people in Louth suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia.
The centre will cater for 20 patients, five days a week.