LOOKING BACK ON 9 YEARS OF COFFEE MORNING FUNDRAISING
An annual fixture in the fundraising calendar locally was the well-supported coffee morning held around this time down through the years, in aid of St Joseph’s Foundation, Charleville. However, as with most events, Covid has placed a hold on such gatherings.
What would have been the significant 10th anniversary of the first coffee morning has now unfortunately been placed on pause. An event which would have been all the more poignant, following the sad passing in October 2020 of the co-founder of St Joseph’s, Dr Martin O’Donnell.
Glanworth lady, Orna Cogan, daughter of Dr O’Donnell, told The Avondhu how significant the event has been down through the years.
“It would have been our 10th year fundraising for this amazing association, but due to Covid-19, it wasn’t meant to be. We had hoped that this year would have been a special time to have our coffee morning in memory of my late dad, Dr Martin O’Donnell, co-founder who passed away last October 2020,” Orna said. “So, hopefully next year all going well, we will celebrate.”
Always a fundraiser to receive great support, €25,000 has been raised since its inception – a great achievement, with the coffee morning being staged in recent years in Kildorrery parish hall.
“My father was an amazing man and father to my siblings and to my mum, he is missed by everyone in Charleville and was so devoted to St Joseph’s Foundation, Charleville which he founded over 53 years ago.
“So, I want to say thank you to everyone who sent us Mass cards, beautiful messages and condolences, to the O’Donnell family - you have been a great comfort to us for the last 5 months. Also, to mention Cathy Thornhill and the people of Kildorrery and all the local businesses who have given us support over the last 9 years.
“I have met so many people who have spoken so highly about my dad and the difference he had made to so many families with children with special needs, so thank you all.”
Acknowledging the dedication of her ‘ wonderful committee’ - Mgt O’Neill, Kevin O’Flynn, Ellen Aherne and Owen Aherne – Orna is grateful of those who have given generously throughout the years.
“I would also like to thank my wonderful committee who have stood by my side and who have become great friends to me, thank you so much.
“Dad, you will be missed by everyone you made such a difference to everyone and you will always be known as the doctor who brought children out of the attics. So, thank you again from the bottom of my heart and I want to especially thank all the people who supported us over the last 9 years”.
Orna will now continue her father’s legacy by fundraising for St Joseph’s Foundation. Here’s looking forward to the 10th anniversary fundraiser, which no doubt will roll around soon.