Mark’s Dip a Day fundraiser gives €13k to local ABI unit

IT was a fundraiser that took off with aplomb which left organiser Mark Elliott astounded by the response from people.

His Dip a Day throughout the month of December, braving the icy temperatures of the Atlantic and Lough Gill, raised more than he ever dreamed of.

The charity benefitting from his novel initiative is the local branch of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland (ABI).

Mark and his fellow participants recently held a cheque donation ceremony in the Glasshouse Hotel.

Mark said he has been overwhelmed by the response and the amount people have raised.

He said: “The final amount raised from the Dip A Day Challenge was €13,056.44. “We presented the cheque to Teresa O’Boyle, Local Services Manager of ABI and the Glasshouse very kindly sponsored us as the venue and food for the occasion. Once again I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took part and supported us in any way throughout December.”

Teresa O’Boyle, Local Services Manager in Sligo with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland said they were delighted with the donation from the Dip a Day fundraiser.

“We wish to congratulate Mark and everyone who supported him along the way.

“Mark’s Dip A Day fundraiser has been inspirational for so many people because it shows that with determination and persistence, you can achieve your goal.

“At Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, goal setting is a vital part of neuro-rehabilitation as we help hundreds of brain injury survivors relearn vital skills to rebuild their lives.

“Mark’s incredible fundraising effort will go a long way to support our transitional living service in Cleveragh and Resource

Centre in Wolfe Tone Street here in Sligo, which helps people return to independent living after a brain injury.

“Thanks to Mark and all his supporters, we can help more brain injury survivors maximise their potential and life as full a life as possible,” Teresa added.

Mark said he was blown away by the response to the fundraiser and has plans to run it again this December, thanking everyone for their support.

Mark Elliott (left) with supporters and swimmers at the cheque presentation to the local branch of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland.

Mark Elliott, organiser of a Dip a Day with Carol Galvin who also completed all of the swims.

Supporters at the presentation.

Mark Elliott and Teresa O’Boyle.