Leben Building Neurological Centre Acute Stroke Unit at University Hospital Limerick

Colette Cowen, CEO University Hospital Limerick, Gerry Boland, JP McManus Trust; Prof. Niall O’Higgins, Hospital Trust, Una Anderson Ryan, Chairperson Parkinson’s Special Projects and Richard Lynch, I Love Limerick. Picture: Kieran Clancy.

A new era in the care of Parkinson’s patients at University Hospital Limerick has been marked with a ceremony this Friday at the newly opened Leben Building Neurological Centre/Acute Stroke Unit.

A plaque has been unveiled in recognition of the contribution of the Parkinsons Association of Ireland MidWest Branch in developing the unit and the generosity of JP and Noreen McManus and family.

The new unit opened in November 2015 and includes 24 inpatient beds, nine of which are dedicated to neurology, including Parkinson’s, patients. It was completed at a capital cost of approximately €3 million, with additional equipment costs being met jointly by the Parkinson’s Association and the HSE/UL Hospitals Group.

The unit takes up one floor of the six-storey, €16.5 million Leben Building, a project delivered through a development agreement between the HSE and three charities which came together to form Leben Developments Ltd; namely the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland, the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland/TLC4CF and the Mid-Western Hospitals Development Trust.

The unveiling ceremony took place during Parkinson’s Awareness Week and coincided with the launch at UHL of “Meds on Time”, a Parkinson’s Association campaign to ensure the timely administration of medication to patients in order to control their symptoms.

Parkinson’s is the second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s with an incidence of one to two per 1,000 in the general population and one per 100 in the over-80s. It is accordingly estimated that there are approximately 680 people living with Parkinson’s disease in the Mid-West (Clare, Limerick and north Tipperary).

Speaking at the unveiling today, Una Anderson Ryan, Chairman of Special Projects, Parkinson’s Association of Ireland, said the new unit would greatly benefit the region’s growing Parkinson’s population. It was a far cry from the old ward 3B where Parkinson’s patients were treated in an environment unfit for purpose.

“The Mid-West Branch of the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland have spent most of the past decade seeking to have a modern state-of-the-art facility in the region for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Thankfully, and at long last, our desire has been achieved and is evident for all to see at University Hospital Limerick. It has been a long and arduous task from design stage; involving architects and engineers, to financial and legal considerations, the tendering process and consequent monitoring at all stages of development,” Ms Anderson Ryan said.

“We believe that this new Neurological Centre will be a tremendous asset to the people of the Mid-West and the fact that it has been built at no cost to the state is hugely significant. The Parkinson’s Association here in the Mid-West is particularly indebted to JP and Noreen McManus and their family and we thank them for their munificence. The impact of the McManus family on the Mid-West Region is truly awesome and words do not exist to thank them fully and adequately,” she added.

That generosity has benefitted not only Parkinson’s but other neurology and stroke patients in the new unit.

Prof Declan Lyons, Consultant in Geriatric Medicine and Clinical Director, Medicine Directorate, UL Hospitals Group, commented:  “Stroke is becoming more and more prevalent in Ireland as the population ages and is becoming a bigger and bigger part of what an acute hospital like UHL does. The technology, the drug treatment and the management of acute stroke patients has changed dramatically in recent years and that will continue to be the case.”

Leben Building Neurological Centre

Richard with Nollaig Lonergan (Mid Western Hospitals Development Trust) , Sue Ann McManus (Pro-Am), Una Anderson Ryan (Chairperson of joint-committee) at the turning of the sod for the new Leben Building at the University Hospital Limerick in 2012. Picture: Paul Mullins

“That makes it all the more important to have the right facilities to deliver optimal care to stroke patients and that is what this new unit will help us to achieve. We are deeply grateful to the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland, to the McManus family and to all of our own staff who have contributed to delivering this marvellous new unit for our stroke and neurology patients,” Prof Lyons said.

The contribution of the HSE and Department of Health in meeting much of the equipment costs in the stroke unit and in the wider Leben project was also acknowledged. The HSE has in addition met the costs of additional nursing, medical and allied health posts in the new unit, including in speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and neuropsychology.

Meds on Time

The Parkinson’s Association of Ireland has also contributed to specialist staff training and awareness campaigns around Parkinson’s and the unveiling marked the commencement at UHL of the “Meds on Time” campaign.

Staff nurse Michael O’Halloran is one of seven nursing, physiotherapy and pharmacy staff who, supported by the Parkinson’s Association and UL Hospitals Group, volunteered for a Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist course at London’s South Bank University two years ago. That knowledge is now being applied for the benefit of Parkinson’s patients in the new unit. 

“A working group focusing on the care of Parkinson’s Disease patients is now fully functioning and its aim is to provide up-to-date, evidenced-based, efficient, optimal care to Parkinson’s patients admitted to the ward,” said Mr O’Halloran.

“Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive, fluctuating neurological disorder. It occurs when the cells in the part of the brain that control movement are lost. These cells produce dopamine, a chemical that enables people to perform smooth co-ordinated movements. Without enough dopamine in the brain, everyday activities including walking, swallowing and even smiling are affected,” explained Mr O’Halloran.

“The main treatment for Parkinson’s Disease is medication and there are specific drugs which work by replacing or mimicking the actions of dopamine. Often people will be on a number of drugs, each of which must be taken throughout the day at specific times. These stimulate a carefully timed release of chemicals into the brain to allow a person with Parkinson’s to control their movements. The symptoms and progression of Parkinson’s Disease is unique to each individual. It may have taken a long time for the patient and specialist to establish the best individualised drug regime. Once a medication regime is disrupted, it may take hours, days or even weeks for a person’s Parkinson’s to stabilise .This can have serious consequences for ward management and the treatment for which the person was originally admitted. The patient is likely to require a higher level of care and an extended hospital stay – at a significant cost in both time and resources. There is an increased risk of accidents and falls, and in some cases the originally planned treatment may no longer be possible.  The patient may also feel a loss of dignity and independence as well as the ability to communicate and exercise choice in their care,” Mr O’Halloran explained.

Dr Peter Boers, consultant neurologist, UL Hospitals Group, said: “It is a very well recognised phenomenon with Parkinson’s patients that their symptoms are time-dependent and that they have to take their medication at the correct time. When any patient comes in to hospital, there is a standard hospital prescription chart which has the times pre-specified – be it 8am, midday, 4pm and so on – but that might not suit the Parkinson’s patients. They might need their medication at 7.30am, 11.30am and so on and there is no provision for that on the pre-printed charts. What has to happen is there has to be an understanding among medical and nursing staff at ward level that the Parkinson’s patients medication has to be given at the time they take them at home. The particular time is very important.”

 For more information about Parkinson’s Association Midwest, click here
Make sure to follow Parkinson’s Association on Twitter and Facebook
For more related stories by I Love Limerick, click here

Save

Lolas Ball Act for Menengitis fundraiser is a huge success!

At Lolas Ball Act for Menengitis fundraiser – Richard with Leanne Moore, Siobhan Carroll, Founder of Act for Menengitis, Ruth Melling, Lola’s mam, Leah Melling, Lola’s sister, Dawn McGoldrick, Act for Meningitis, Hollie Nagle, Lola’s sister and Ross Nagle, Lola’s dad. Picture: Dolf Patijn/ilovelimerick.

Lolas Ball, an evening to remember Lola Jane Nagle took place this past Saturday in the Greenhills Hotel in aid of ACT for Meningitis. Richard Lynch of I Love Limerick was honoured to host the event with his good friend Leanne Moore and the night was very emotional, filled with love and a huge success!

On April 15 last year one family’s whole world was turned upside down when they tragically and suddenly lost their precious little girl Lola, aged just 17 months, to meningitis.  Nothing could have prepared them for the devastation that losing a child would cause. Since then the family have worked tirelessly to prevent another family from going through their nightmare. Lola’s family wants to ensure that no one faces the meningitis journey alone.

Last June, an unbelievable crowd gathered today the AllStar Ink tattoo parlour, in Limerick City, for a Lola Nagle ACT for Meningitis Fundraiser. €19,924.28 was raised after a number of people donated money, or paid to get butterfly tattoos, in aid of the ACT for Meningitis organisation.

“We never thought meningitis would affect us but it did,” says event organiser and Lolas sister, the inspirational 17 year old Leah Melling.  “We organised this ball to remember our beautiful little butterfly Lola, and to raise funds, but also to raise awareness of Meningitis because knowing the signs and symptoms may just save a life.  We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the people of Limerick.”

ACT for Meningitis is a national meningitis support and awareness charity based in Galway.  Set up in 2011 by Siobhan and Noel Carroll following the loss of their 4-year-old daughter Aoibhe to this devastating disease. ACT for Meningitis aims to raise awareness, promote education and provide free support to anyone in Ireland affected by meningitis.

Entertainment was provided by Voice of Ireland contestant Niall O’ Halloran, Ciara Meade, lead singer of the well-known Limerick band Funk Junkies, MizDrea, Tiny Giants and upcoming singer songwriter Aaron Hackett, magician Steve Spade and comedienne Al Foran. Guests then danced the night away with DJs Ian McLoughlin and Party Marty.

People, who did not attend the ball, can still make a difference and offer their support to ACT for Meningitis.

Support Act for Meningitis here

Find Lolas Ball on Facebook

Read more on the I Love Limerick site here

[nggallery id = 16]

Sparkle and Shine Ball in association with Keith Duffy Foundation

Sparkle and Shine Ball in association with Keith Duffy Foundation – Pictured left to right – Keith Duffy, Leanne Moore, Celia Holman Lee, Lisa Duffy, Miriam O’Callaghan, Terry Ring, Jessica Mc Gurk, Richard Lynch, Brendan Ring. Picture: Dolf Patijn/ilovelimerick.

Sparkle and Shine ball in association with Keith Duffy Foundation had to be one of the most glamorous events to take place in Limerick this year and was a successful night. The ball was a star studded event with well known faces such as Miriam O’Callaghan, the patron of Clionas Foundation, Keith Duffy representing the Keith Duffy Foundation, Celia Holman Lee and Leanne Moore, one of the ambassadors of the Cliona Foundation.

The night began in the main lobby of the Limerick Strand Hotel where the elegant and extremely well dressed guests were greeted with prosecco and a tiered Ferrero Roche pyramid. The Unity Gospel Choir Limerick sang their hearts out and really set the tone for the evening, which was just spectacular.Sparkle and Shine Ball in association with the Keith Duffy

The guests gasped as they entered the main reception area as the room was completely transformed into a wonderland. This year the Sparkle and Shine initiative and the Keith Duffy Foundation, founded by Keith Duffy, decided to join forces to raise funds for their respective chosen charities and to give the Midwest region a night that has become one of the most high-profile events of this year.

The entertainment was never ending with Cole Page flying in from England for the night to perform. The guest were on their feet and then on their chairs very literally as Cold Page created an incredible atmosphere in the room.

In addition to Cole Page phenomenal performance, the Multi Award Winning Classical Singer, Amanda Neri will also be performing. Amanda has captivated audiences in such venues in Ireland as The Helix, Cork Opera House, Fota House, Bantry House, Longueville House, Siamsa Tire Theatre, Cork City Hall. Sparkle and Shine Ball in association with the Keith Duffy

The giving never ended on the night as the tombola raffle rose a whopping €4,000 alone. Then Keith Duffy took to the stage along with his trusty assistant Richard Lynch to start the auction! Members of the audience really dug deep for the charities as there was more than €35,000 for Clionas Foundation, Symptomatic Breast Unit and Mid Western Cancer Foundation.

Some of the auction prizes included his and hers Calvin Klein watches from Keanes Jeweler’s in Limerick and Bruce Springsteen tickets, afternoon tea in the Westbury hotel and a stay in the five star Conrad Hotel, Framed drawing by Martin Finnin with signed book of his works and concert tickets to concerts such as Macklemore and Ryan Lewis and Little Mix.

The Keith Duffy Foundation has chosen Cliona’s Foundation to be their chosen charity for its inaugural event in Limerick. The aim of Cliona’s Foundation is to give financial support to families of children with life limiting illnesses, to help them pay for the vast amount of non-medical costs associated with caring for a seriously ill child, “I’m delighted to help raise funds for Cliona’s Foundation for the work they do, it is something that’s close to my heart as I have seen the financial burden on families caring for a critically ill child and as part of my work with the Keith Duffy Foundation which aims to provide support and financial assistance to a number of chosen children’s charities throughout the country. I am also thrilled that Miriam O Callaghan, a much respected broadcaster and the official patron of my chosen charity Cliona’s Foundation, is coming to show her support on the night.” Sparkle and Shine Ball in association with the Keith Duffy

The night was a complete success and the guest who attended partied on into the late hours having given back to these well-deserved charities. We cannot wait to see what next years event will be like and wish all the charities the best of luck!

 

You can follow Clionas foundation on twitter and facebook
You can also check out the Keith Duffy Foundation website, here
You can follow Keith on Twitter
For more related articles by I Love Limerick, click here 

[nggallery id = 15]

Young Social Innovators from St. Munchin’s College, Limerick advocate for Team Limerick Cleanup at the Lime Tree Theatre. Pictured with Richard Lynch at the Speak Out were Jack Kingston, Sean Skelton, Andrew Tierney and Luke Culhane of #CreateNoHate. Picture: Derek Speirs.

21 schools have taken part in the Young Social Innovators Speak Out that took place in Limerick as part of the YSI Speak Out Tour 2016 which will visit seven counties throughout March and April. The Speak Out Tour is part of the Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards supported by Ulster Bank.

Over 6,500 students throughout Ireland are taking part in Young Social Innovators this year working
in 450 teams to tackle social issues affecting them and their communities. 60 teams will be shortlisted to compete for the national title of Young Social Innovators of the Year on the 10th of May 2016 in Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre. Young Social Innovators challenges young people to work within their communities to identify areas of need and to come up with and implement solutions for positive social change.

Young Social Innovators with Luke Culhane

Young Social Innovators from St. Munchin’s College, Limerick advocate for road safety at the Lime Tree Theatre, Limerick. Pictured with Richard Lynch of ilovelimerick.ie at the Speak Out sponsored by Ulster Bank were Jack Kingston, Sean Skelton, Andrew Tierney, Claire Culhane and Luke Culhane. Photo by Derek Speirs

The Speak Out Tour gives young innovators the opportunity to come together to present their creative ideas and actions as well as a chance to see what other teams are doing to tackle their chosen social issues. Teams are given two minutes on stage to present their social innovation to an audience of their peers, invited guests and a YSI Panel. The events give teenagers a platform and voice in society and a way of contributing to real life issues impacting on lives around Ireland and beyond.  The teams that presented at the Speak Out in Lime Tree Theatre Limerick spoke on a wide range of issues including mental health, body image, autism and sexual and gender identity.

The guest speakers for the Limerick event were Richard Lynch of I Love Limerick and Luke Culhane from #createnohate, whose video about cyberbullying has gone viral and has been watched all over the globe.

The Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards is now in its 15th year.  This year, 6,500 teenagers are working on 450 projects from 211 schools looking at a very diverse range of issues including integration, equality, crime, health, safety, homelessness, intergenerational initiatives and more. CEO of Young Social Innovators, Rachel Collier said: “YSI offers a unique opportunity for young people enabling them to grapple with difficult social issues, advocate reform and advance change. This experience boosts their ability to deal with uncertainty and change, a hallmark of today’s world.

YSI prepares young people for life and work and has both social and commercial value. We want  young people to become innovators in their own lives and be resourceful in creating positive change and solutions in the world around them. The energy felt at these events must be experienced and we wish all the participants the best of luck in progressing their projects and continuing to advocate for change in their communities. We are of course grateful to Ulster Bank and all our partners for their support and look forward to increasing our reach and impact into the future.” Ulster Bank’s partnership with the programme is part of its ongoing commitment to fostering social innovation and entrepreneurship from a young age, and to build on its strong community legacy of education evident in its MoneySense and Skills & Opportunities fund programmes.

Speaking about YSI and the Speak Out Tour, Cathal Daly, Regional Manager, Retail Banking, Ulster Bank said: “One of Ulster Bank’s goals as a business is to enable growth through innovation which is why we’ve focused investment on financial education, entrepreneurship and skills programmes for young people. We want to inspire a new generation of social innovators. Our partnership with YSI extends beyond financial support, to include volunteering our business skills and insights – from our experience working in communities across the country – to help raise the voices of our talented youth who hold the future of positive change in this country in their hands.”

For more information about the event you can check out Young Social Innovators website here

Follow YSI on Facebook and Twitter

Follow Luke Culhane on Twitter, YouTube and Instagram

For more related check out the I Love Limerick site here

Climb for Style at the ultimate Ladies Luncheon in aid of Our Ladys Childrens Hospital Crumlin

Will O’Brien (Be Fabulous), Sharon Tucker (Style Columnist), Asta Lee (Asta Lee Personal Development, Padraic Frawley (Cornstore Limerick), Richard Lynch (ILovelimerick), Sinead Clohessy (Specsavers Limerick). Photo: Jonathon Baynes/ilovelimerick

Specsavers Limerick is thrilled to announce that they are hosting an exclusive ladies luncheon Climb for Style in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital on Friday April 15th 2016, in the Cornstore, on Thomas Street in Limerick. All proceeds from the event, hosted by Richard Lynch of ‘I Love Limerick’, will go towards the refurbishment of The Department of Ophthalmology in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin.

Sinead Clohessy, Chairperson of Specsavers Ireland said, “This year is an extra special year for the Specsavers Limerick stores, as Limerick native and Specsavers staff member Tony Power has pledged to climb to base camp of Mount Everest this June, for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin. Tony’s incredible generosity and determination will see the money raised from his initiative going towards the refurbishment of The Department of Ophthalmology, which typically diagnoses and treats over 10,000 children annually, making it one of the busiest departments within the hospital.”

Specsavers Limerick is encouraging locals to climb on board with the store’s efforts and join them for the ultimate ladies day out. Kicking off at midday, guests will have the chance to win a covetable selection of prizes as they enjoy a day of relaxation, fun, music and fashion.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a glass of prosecco. Once seated, guests will be served a delicious three course meal and entertained with all things glamourous for the day. If that’s not enough, Limerick’s favourite style and beauty gurus will be on hand to talk to guests about the latest trends, whilst sharing insider top tips and tricks.

One of Limerick’s most vibrant personalities, Richard Lynch will be your host for the day. Joining him will be fashion guru Will O’Brien, make up expert Fiona McNamara, style columnist Sharon Tucker and skincare specialist Ita O’Donnell.

Will O Brien from Be Fabulous Limerick will be talking you through how to select that all-important special occasion gown. Asta Lee from the Asta Lee Development Agency will join Will to give tips on how to find that perfect pose.

Fiona McNamara has become a household name in the Irish makeup industry as she has done many workshops for Irish blogger Suzanne Jackson aka SoSueMe. Fiona will be advising all you ladies on makeup bag essentials for everyday beauty. Ita O’Donnell of the Otto Clinic, will be talking you through skincare tips and how to get that healthy glow before summer.

Sharon Tucker, Limerick Chronicle style columnist, will be helping all you ladies with dressing for your body shape and embracing your curves.

Climb for Style at the ultimate Ladies Luncheon in aid of Our Ladys Childrens Hospital Crumlin

Asta Lee (Asta Lee Personal Development), Sinead Clohessy (Specsavers Limerick), Sharon Tucker (Style Columnist), Will O’Brien (Be Fabulous), Richard Lynch (ILovelimerick), Photo: Jonathon Baynes/ilovelimerick.

At the event Specsavers will also be launching the highly anticipated new Love Moschino eyewear collection and Kay Mulcair, owner of The K Boutique will be on hand introducing the new Love Moschino clothing collection for Spring/Summer.

The Climb for Style Ladies Luncheon in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital takes place on Friday April 15th 2016 at noon, in the Cornstore, Thomas Street, Limerick. Tickets are priced at €75 and are available to buy online at [email protected] or call Dee at 085 111 6514.

Follow the hasgtag #LimerickClimbForCrumlin on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for event updates.

Honouring Aaron supporting childrens charities because children matter

The official launch of Honouring Aaron and its new website took place in the George Boutique Hotel on Monday February 22. The organisation took this opportunity to proudly announce their chosen charities who will benefit from a range of fundraising initiatives during 2016.  Honouring Aaron, previously titled ‘Remembering Aaron’, was established in 2015 in memory of Aaron O’Flaherty who tragically passed away in 2014 at Temple Street Children’s Hospital after an accident at the Blackhead Lighthouse, Co. Clare. The aim of Honouring Aaron is to raise funds for Temple Street Children’s Hospital and also a number of children’s charities in Limerick.

Cecelia, Aaron’s mom and founder of the organisation, remains entirely grateful for the work and support shown by the people of Temple Street during such a traumatic time “They were so good to him. They were all touched by Aaron in the time he was there and treated us with dignity and kindness,” Cecelia said.  In 2015, Honouring Aaron raised funds for Temple Street Children’s Hospital along with two charities Bumbleance and Cliona’s Foundation, plus two Limerick based organisations, Claughauns GAA and Limerick Lakers Basketball. These were selected as they had touched Aaron’s life in one-way or another.

At the launch in the George Boutique Hotel in Limerick, it was announced that Temple Street will remain as the main beneficiary of Honouring Aaron for 2016 along with three Limerick based charities; The Blue Box, Ian’s Trust and Sophie’s Journey Foundation, each benefiting from the upcoming year’s fundraisers. The Blue Box Creative Learning Centre provides trained professionals to Limerick schools and families to help children through difficult times using creative arts therapies.

Ian’s Trust provides funds to support families of children who suffer from Acquired Brain Injury. The trust was set up by Orla Cusack in memory of her son who passed away in 2012 after suffering from a severe acquired brain injury following a road accident in 2008.  Liam and Stacey Mulcahy founded Sophie’s Journey Foundation in January 2015 in memory of their daughter who sadly passed away from kidney failure in 2014. They support families who are caring for children with life limiting conditions.

Speaking at the launch was the official ambassador for Honouring Aaron, community activist and founder of ILoveLimerick.com Richard Lynch. “I am honoured to be representing Honouring Aaron. Each charity the Foundation has chosen to support this year offers invaluable support to families in aid, because children matter. Honouring Aaron is Cecilia’s way of giving back to a community that was so supportive of her, as well as a way to honour her late son, by doing something positive.” Cecilia, a Civil Defence officer, acknowledged the support offered by the people of Limerick saying that it has been “overwhelming”.  She added, “I am thrilled to announce that this May the #Aarthon will be taking place as part of the Barrington’s Great Limerick Run to raise awareness for Honouring Aaron, and raise vital funds for our selected charities and I am asking people to please take part in the run on our behalf. I am also pleased to announce that this year the Kids Run in the University of Limerick will be in honour of Aaron.”

Take a look at the Honouring Aaron site here

Check out the Honouring Aaron Facebook here and Twitter here

Read more on the I Love Limerick site here

 

 

The Sparkle & Shine Easter Ball 2016 in association with the Keith Duffy Foundation will take place on Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday, March 26th, at the Limerick Strand Hotel.

Miriam O Callaghan, one of RTE’s most loved and respected presenters will co- present the evening along with former Boyzone star, actor and philanthropist Keith Duffy. Entertainment for the star-studded event will be provided by world-class performer Cole Page and his band. An exclusive live auction will be the highlight for many, along with an extensive raffle supported by local businesses.

This year the Sparkle and Shine initiative and the Keith Duffy Foundation, founded by Keith Duffy, have decided to join forces to raise funds for their respective chosen charities and to give the Midwest region a night that is set to become one of the most high profile events of the year.

The Keith Duffy Foundation has chosen Cliona’s Foundation to be their chosen charity for its inaugural event in Limerick. The aim of Cliona’s Foundation is to give financial support to families of children with life limiting illnesses, to help them pay for the vast amount of non-medical costs associated with caring for a seriously ill child, “I’m delighted to help raise funds for Cliona’s Foundation for the work they do, it is something that’s close to my heart as I have seen the financial burden on families caring for a critically ill child and as part of my work with the Keith Duffy Foundation which aims to provide support and financial assistance to a number of chosen children’s charities throughout the country. I am also thrilled that Miriam O Callaghan, a much respected broadcaster and the official patron of my chosen charity Cliona’s Foundation, is coming to show her support on the night.” 

Miriam O Callaghan, one of RTE’s most loved and respected faces will be Master of Ceremonies for the glamorous event. Miriam has become a household name in Ireland following her success on RTE’s Primetime and Saturday Night with Miriam.

There will be a live fundraiser auction compered by none other than Keith Duffy himself with some seriously fabulous treats up for grabs. World-renowned singer Cole Page will provide entertainment for the evening. Cole has performed for dignitaries from the worlds of politics, music and sport including Bill Clinton, Sir Alex Ferguson and Robbie Williams. There will be Easter favours at each seat, spot prizes, table prizes and gift bags and a raffle with a guaranteed prize of a minimum value of €100 at each table with plenty more opportunities to win prizes throughout the night.

The Sparkle and Shine Easter Ball in association with the Keith Duffy Foundation will take place on the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday, March 26th at the Limerick Strand Hotel.  Tickets cost €100 or €1000 for a table. Check out the Sparkle & Shine Facebook page here

Take a look at the Keith Duffy Foundation site here

Check out the Keith Duffy Foundation Facebook here

[nggallery id=13]

St Munchins Community Centre 10 year anniversary

Pictured at St Munchins Community Centre 10 year Anniversary celebrations – Richard with Kevin O Reilly, Denise Mulcahy, Catherine Troy, Kieran O Neill, Chairperson St Munchins Community Centre, JP Mc Manus, Sue Anne Foley, Noreen McManus and Linda Ledger, Manager St Munchins Community Centre. Picture: Jonathan Baynes/ilovelimerick.

Spirits were high this week at the St Munchins Community Centre 10 year anniversary celebrations, after a decade of community enhancement and development, with special guests in attendance.

 JP and Noreen McManus attended the celebrations with daughter Sue-Ann Foley, in a show of support for the centre, and to turn the sod on the new day-care facility that will be built on the grounds.

After being presented with a number of gifts, in a show of gratitude for the help of the JP McManus Benevolent Fund, Sue-Ann Foley spoke to the crowds, encouraging the people who avail of the services offered to be “grateful” that they have people to speak for them, because “not every community has it. “We get plenty of applications in for centres such as this, and we try and help as many people as we can. It’s very easy to help St Munchin’s.

“My parents are very proud Limerick people.. And this centre shows what Limerick is about and the proper community spirit,” Sue-Ann said. Linda Ledger, St Munchin’s Centre Manager, thanked the McManus family for their continued support over the past decade. “None of this could have been done without JP McManus, he’s been our backbone. All our dreams have really just come true, and they’re even better than we thought.”

The centre continues to expand, taking over the grounds of the former St Lelia’s National School, which was one of three schools amalgamated into Thomond Primary, earlier this year. Thomond Primary is one of the many beneficiaries of the wide range of services that St Munchin’s offer to the community, with one of their newest ventures being the community café at the school, an extension of the café in the centre. Backed by social enterprise, six of the centre’s staff serve food to more than 250 students, giving them the chance to socialise with fellow students in the morning, over a healthy breakfast.

Linda Ledger spoke about the community café initiative, and its success so far. “There are some things like that, that we do, that you can’t put value on. There’s no glossy document, you just have to see it. And when you see something like that, it’s really wonderful,” she said. The new facility at the former St Lelia’s will be an “educational outreach” for everyone, young and old.

Paul Patton, Head of Further Education and Training, Limerick and Clare ETB, officially announced the major award in Healthcare Support that will be available in the new facility. Speaking about promoting education in the community, Mr Patton said: ““The whole idea is, as a social enterprise, is to work within the neighbourhood, and further afield.” This award covers modules, such as; Care Skills, Care of the Older Person, Care Support, Palilative Care Support, Infection Prevention Control, naming just a few. “We’re going to look at education in a completely different light.. We are tackling education, our way,” Linda said.

Visit the St Munchins’ Community Centre website here

Check out the St Munchin’s Community Centre Facebook page here and Twitter here

Read more about St Munchin’s here