81-year-old Paddy Conaghan
Paddy Conaghan has set out an epic fundraising challenge - to swim his way around the coast of the island of Ireland all in a bid to raise money for mental heakth charity ‘Gemma’s Legacup of Hope’, and so far the Irish man has raised almost €80,000.
The 81-year-old resident of Arranmore Island, off the coast Donegal coast, started out on his gruelling journey at Aphort beach in County Donegal.
Paddy’s friend, Elaine, manages the online fundraising page and says that the brave pensioner is “the most determined and fittest man” she knows.
Paddy (left) pictured in Larne on Sunday. (Photo: Bill Guiller)
On the road for a number of weeks now, Paddy has been making his way in all conditions and right through the Festive Season ducking and diving in every port or beach he comes to, and today (Sunday 30 January) he arrived on the East Antrim Coast.
He has been pictured having a swim in both Larne and Carnlough, County Antrim.
Gemma’s Legacy of Hope is a counselling service set up to help children from the age of 5, young adults and adults across the life course in the Rosses, County Donegal.
Paddy pictured today (Sunday) in Carnlough, County Antrim. (Photo: Christopher Ossowski)
Paddy’s friend Elaine who manages the online fundraiser page said:
“Paddy has been training all year for this, he has swam everyday since the 1 January in all kinds of weather and is well able for the challenge. He bought a van and all the equipment he needs, so he is ready to go. Exciting times ahead.”
Paddy pictured today (Sunday) in Carnlough, County Antrim. (Photos: Christopher Ossowski)
Commenting on the charity, Elaine continued:
“Gemma's Legacy of Hope is an amazing service on our doorstep. Covid has had an impact on all of us, and we will not see the true effect it has had for a number of years yet.
“More than ever, mental health needs to be promoted and this service greatly needs our help to continue its incredible work.”
Paddy pictured today (Sunday) in Carnlough, County Antrim. (Photo: Christopher Ossowski)
Keep an eye out for Paddy and his team as he continues his amazing journey. You can make a donation to support the cause close to his heart at the link below:
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