JOE IS A MAN ON A MISSION
Joseph Aherne (Joe Jnr) can be seen daily trodding the roads around Kilworth, sometimes accompanied by his good friend Chris O’Mahony, clocking up 30 kilometres a week in the process. But Joe is a man on a mission - running to support his cousin Jennifer Aherne, who is undertaking a 30km run each week for 10 weeks in a bid to raise funds for Kerry Hospice who took care of her Dad Brendan, during his final days.
“Uncle Bren passed away in September 2020 from a rare and aggressive form of Nueuroendocrine Cancer having been diagnosed in January of 2020,” Joe told TheA vondhu this week.
Brendan was a native of St Joseph’s Square, Fermoy and a son of the late Jim and Kitty Aherne.
In his daughter Jenny’s own words: “We are beyond grateful for the amazing care and kindness shown to him at the Palliative Care Unit in Tralee. Dr Maggie Clifford led a dedicated team who ensured that Dad was comfortable and pain free.
“They also supported our family in such a difficult time and we will never forget their kindness. We are so lucky to have such a great facility like this in Kerry. All funds raised here will go directly to this worthy cause.”
Jennifer said her aim is to run 30km each week before she’s 30.
“This amounts to 300km of running in 10 weeks and I hope to complete a half marathon on my 30th birthday on the 20th of May to finish off this challenge.
“My amazing cousin Joe Jnr will be running with me virtually on this challenge to help raise funds! I hope you can support this great cause by donating what you can.”
FAMILY MAN
Speaking of his uncle who lived in Killarney, Joe said: “Brendan was a family man through and through, kind, calm, humble and someone who adored nature. This was evident in his beekeeping, chicken rearing, ducks, fruit, vegetables, vineyard etc.
“Passionate about his trade as a carpenter, his work can be seen all around Killarney and weaves through the buildings of the town. Brendan kept very fit and loved his 5-a-sides and of course a pint or two with his mates.
“Brendan was frequently at home in Fermoy visiting family and was always very close with his brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. He was 55 years young.”
Any donations are welcome and can be sent through www.idonate.ie/JenniferAherne.