Valerie documents the history of ALONE
WICKLOW journalist and author Valerie Cox was the toast of the town recently as she launched her latest book which details the history of the charity ALONE.
ALONE: The First 40 Years was launched at the National Library of Ireland by Minister of State at the Department of Health Jim Daly T.D.
The book tells the inspiring story of the early years of ALONE, from Willie Bermingham’s selfless dedication to the people who followed in his footsteps, as well as the new challenges and issues faced by the charity today.
‘Working on this book gave me a firsthand account of the issues faced by older people in Ireland - whether it is loneliness, a lack of support, or housing. A lot has changed since 1977, but ALONE is still needed today more than ever. This book is dedicated to the unsung heroes of ALONE, those who continue to volunteer, donate and work to support the older members of our communities, Valerie said. The book records the founding of the charity in 1977 by young fireman after he discovered the bodies of three older people in their homes.
It also chronicles the charity’s achievements including the housing complexes it built and the thousands of people who have been befriended by the charity’s inspiring volunteers.
Speaking at the launch Minister Daly said ‘ALONE was founded in 1977 as a response to the desperate issues faced by older people in the city. Today, ALONE continues to provide a very valuable service to older people throughout Ireland who find themselves isolated and alone. I am delighted to be launching this book tonight in celebration of such an important and historically significant charity.’ Sean Moynihan, CEO of ALONE paid tribute to Valerie for her work on the project.
‘We would like to thank Valerie Cox for undertaking this project and producing such a fantastic book that records the challenges and achievements of our organisation. This is also a story of the joy and laughter between people, which friendship and support brings,’ he said.
‘Tonight is a celebration of ALONE and the people involved in the charity’s journey so far who have never forgotten its ethos – to support older people in our society. Together we will work with all parties to achieve our vision to support older people to age at home and be valued and respected in the communities they live.’