We Are Tyrone

Charity

  • Omagh man puts on running shoes for diabetes awareness

    Omagh man puts on running shoes for diabetes awareness

    AN award-winning photographer and screenwriter who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes last year will take on the Omagh 5K in support of Diabetes UK NI.

    Aidan McAleer (26), from Omagh, said his diagnosis came as ‘quite a surprise’ after he went for routine blood tests and discovered he had high blood sugars.

    “I was told over the phone that I needed to attend the hospital as soon as possible,” he explained.

    “When my nurse explained the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, it all made sense.”

    Aidan said that he didn’t notice any of the signs at all as he had been exercising more. He assumed that the symptoms, which included losing weight, drinking more water and needing to run to the toilet more, were all due to his healthier lifestyle.

    ‘WHIRLWIND’

    “It really was a whirlwind,” explained Aidan.

    “But my parents and fiancée were such a great help as I came to terms with my diagnosis and what it meant.

    “I’m managing much better now and looking forward to taking part in the Omagh 5k in order to raise money for Diabetes UK while raising awareness of diabetes and getting fit and healthy for my wedding and the future.”

    Aidan said that, while diabetes runs in his family, his knowledge was limited and this is why he feels it is important to raise as much awareness as possible about the signs and symptoms to look out for.

    As he prepares for the Omagh 5k on Sunday, April 7, Aidan explained that it has been challenging at times getting back into running since his diagnosis, but he was taking it ‘slow and steady’.

    He continued, “For anyone interested in taking on a fundraising challenge, I say go for it!

    “Don’t let diabetes hold you back, it may just be a case of getting used to a new routine, so go easy on yourself and enjoy it.”

    Aidan explained that diabetes can affect each person differently and that it’s not as simple as ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to managing things – another reason why he thinks much greater awareness is needed when it comes to the signs and symptoms.

    HELP

    He said, “Talk to your family or friends and let them know when you’re struggling and need help.

    “There is always help and support out there, especially from Diabetes UK.

    “Their website is full of information and they also have a dedicated helpline.

    “There is a lot to learn and take in, but it all comes in time, so be patient – I’m still learning everyday.”

    On the run-up to the Omagh 5k, Aidan is also taking part in a ‘62 miles in March’ walking challenge, which will also contribute to his fundraising efforts.

    If you would like to donate, you can do so by visiting Aidan’s Facebook photography page ‘Aidy Mc’ and following the relevant link.

    Aidan will also have donation sheets so people can contact him privately via his page.

  • Sean reflects on his fundraising for Chest, Heart and Stroke

    Sean reflects on his fundraising for Chest, Heart and Stroke

    BEGINNING as a modest funday, ‘Hooley at the Lough’ has grown to become a much-anticipated charity event in Mid Ulster and the county, having raised an upward of 50k in its time in existence.

    The brains behind the event was none other than Sean Patterson, who is also the founder of ‘Friends of Chest, Heart and Stroke’ – and both affairs have one very important common ground: They raise much-needed funds for NI Chest, Heart and Stroke every year.

    Speaking to the Tyrone Herald, Sean was keen to reflect on how he came to be involved with NI Chest, Heart and Stroke all of those years ago.

    “I came to be involved with NI Chest, Heart and Stroke for personal reasons – through family bereavement – and I also suffered with heart trouble,” he began.

    “Around nine or ten years ago, I went into heart failure; I just wasn’t looking after myself. My wife passed away, and I was looking for answers, and looked for answers in the wrong places.

    “So, the charity to me is very personal, and I think it’s important to give something back because you can’t keep taking – you need to help these charities in return,” he explained.

    FRIENDS OF CHEST HEART AND STROKE

    Sean’s reasoning for setting up the fundraising organisation is two-fold.

    “We set up Friends of Chest Heart and Stroke for two main reasons, yes, to raise money, but also to make people aware to look out for their health – because a lot of people have the mind set: ‘It’ll not happen to me’ until it does,” said Sean.

    “I, oftentimes, think until you or someone close to you has suffered from a heart attack or stroke it can be hard to relate,” he said.

    SUCCESS

    Sean commented on the growing and enduring success of Hooley at the Lough.

    “Since we began ten years ago we have raised over 50k for Chest, Heart and Stroke and that’s down to the support of the community, the generosity of local businesses.

    “I think it’s important to note also that the money stays local.

    “90p of every pound we raise will be put straight back in to the Tyrone community,” stated Sean.

    “Our contribution has helped immensely.”

    Hooley at the Lough returns on May 10 for three days worth of quality community fun including a junior disco, tractor run, fight night all finished off with a family funday – not forgetting a special appearance from Jimmy Buckley.

    “We just pray that the weather is good,” added Sean.

  • Strabane teens take to the skies in memory of ‘great family man’

    Strabane teens take to the skies in memory of ‘great family man’

    A TYRONE teenager is taking to the skies along with three of his closest friends in memory of his much-loved dad, who died from cancer last October.

    Dara Langan, from Strabane, has signed up for a charity skydive this June along with Rian Coyle, Hayden Snodgrass and Rian Patton. They are all aged between 15 to 16.

    It is being organised as a tribute to Dara’s father, Barry Langan. The quartet have already raised more than £3,000 through a GoFundMe page.

    Dara told the Tyrone Herald that his dad was a great family man who loved him and his siblings.

    Dara said, “He would have moved heaven and earth for us all. He was always there for me, Sarah and Fionn.

    “I know that he will be remembered as a good man. He was well-known and well-liked. I have heard lots of stories about him and they all talk about his kindness, humour and his love for his family.”

    Dara added, “There are so many things that I could say about him but will always remember him as one of my best friends. Even when he was spending long times in hospital battling his illness, he would phone each day to ask how everything went and to talk about the latest football and GAA news.”

    Barry Langan was a huge Gaelic football fan and played for Urney GAA in his youth. However, during the last few years, he had been a regular face at Strabane Sigersons, due to Dara playing youth football with the club.

    Speaking about the upcoming skydive, Dara said he wanted to do ‘something big’ in his dad’s memory.

    He said, “We plan to do a skydive for the Anthony Nolan charity in June 2024 and in the weeks leading up to this we will be organising different events to raise funds for this cause with help from our GAA clubs (Sigersons and Shamrocks), schools (Holy Cross College and Strabane Academy), and Gaelcholaiste Dhoire Dungiven as well as local businesses. These have all been extremely supportive and generous to our cause already with our GoFundMe page raising over £3,000 so far.

    “We are all very lucky to have so much support from our schools and clubs.”

    Dara added, “We all really appreciate everyone who has taken the time to read our story and who have donated to this very worthy cause and we will do everything that we can to raise awareness for something that is now close to my family’s heart.”

    The Anthony Nolan charity aims to improve the lives of people with blood cancer and blood disorders. The charity is also supporting researchers’ work on finding new ways to treat blood cancers.

    A GoFundMe page has been set up and to donate to it you can by visiting https://gofund.me/28e92d5b. Alternatively, you can use the QR code published along with this article.

  • It’s ‘neigh’ bother to Dromore jockey Ronan

    It’s ‘neigh’ bother to Dromore jockey Ronan

    A DROMORE man who is pursuing his life-long dream of becoming a jockey will ride in his first ever race next month.

    Ronan Slevin, a 25-year-old from Bellisle, was selected from a large number of applicants to ride in a charity flat race in Hereford, England, on April 14, raising money for St Michael’s Hospice. “I’m delighted to have been selected to ride in the race as it’s a great opportunity for me. It will allow me to get a good taste of what race riding is like before I get my amateur licence,” said Ronan.

    Explaining his long-time desire to become a jockey, he remarked, “I have always known that I wanted to be a jockey from a young age. I grew up working with horses and my dad definitely played a big part in my desire to become a jockey.

    “He always kept horses and would do weddings and I would help him out with that – this really built an interest.

    “I would have also taken lessons when I was young but fell out of the habit of it and – like most boys my age – I opted to take up a trade and done mechanicing for five years.”

    Ronan then decided to make a change – a change which fell more in-line with his true ambition – and was accepted to a prestigious college in Doncaster.

    “Two years ago I got accepted to the National Horseracing College in Doncaster and I have been working at Emma Lavelle Racing for the past 18 months,” he continued.

    Emma Lavelle Racing is a large stable near Marlborough, Wiltshire. They boast a huge yard complemented with acres of grass gallops, stables and beautiful schooling facilities – an excellent place for an amateur jockey like Ronan to gain hands-on experience.

    Offering a glimpse into what he does day-to-day at the stables, Ronan said, “In my role as a racing groom I work in the stables and ride the horses out in the morning along the gallops, then come back in the evening time to feed them.

    “We are given five racing horses each to care for and we are responsible for preparing them on race day and taking them up to the start line.”

    As his own race day looms, Ronan remains relaxed for the moment, although that narrative could change once he mounts his horse and stares down the barrel of a mile and four furlongs race course.

    “I’m not nervous at the minute but I imagine as the event gets closer that all could change,” he quipped. “It’s my first time on a race course so that’s bound trigger some nerves but it will be a great experience and I’m very excited.

    “There were a lot of entries and so I’m over the moon to have gotten this chance – I’m very lucky to be working at such a big yard and to have the expert support of Emma and the rest of the team at Emma Lavelle,” he concluded.

    Ronan will be racing for St Michael’s Hospice in Hereford and invites everyone to consider donating to the worthy cause clicking this link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ronan-slevin-1706204696057?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fronan-slevin-1706204696057&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

  • Derg sisters raising funds for pulmonary fibrosis charity

    Derg sisters raising funds for pulmonary fibrosis charity

    TWO sisters from Castlederg whose father passed away from Pulmonary Fibrosis in March 2019 have become new charity ambassadors and are hosting two fundraising events.

    Shauna Lynch McKay and her sister Lucia Lynch Reid organised two events – a dance at the Fir Trees Hotel last Friday at 8pm and then a truck run next month – all in memory of their late father Sean Lynch.

    The Lynch sisters revealed that during their father’s treatment and even after his death, they were unaware of the Pulmonary Fibrosis NI’s existence, due to it being only small at the time and also because it was based east of the Bann.

    However, when they discovered the charity they set about trying to generate as much awareness as possible with both Lucia and Sharon becoming ambassadors.

    Shauna told the Chronicle, “We first heard about Pulmonary Fibrosis NI after our daddy passed away.

    “While he was going through treatment in Omagh Hospital and Foyle Hospice who were both excellent, the charity was based at Antrim Hospital, the main facility for respiratory illnesses in the North.

    “They weren’t as active west of the Bann; as soon as we heard about the charity and the brilliant work they do supporting people and families of people with the condition me, and my sister both became ambassadors.”

    Over 1,200 people live with Pulmonary Fibrosis in the North.

    The disease scars tissue in the lungs over time, eventually make it hard for oxygen to get into the blood.

    Low oxygen levels (and the stiff scar tissue itself) can cause a sufferer to feel short of breath, particularly when walking and exercising.

    Pulmonary fibrosis isn’t just one disease. It is a family of more than 200 different lung diseases that all look very much alike.

    Shauna Lynch added, “Pulmonary Fibrosis NI provides support for patients, their families and carers to improve the quality of life of sufferers in Northern Ireland.

    “At the minute there is no cure for this horrible disease, so we, the charity in partnership with Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis UK are enabling researchers to find a cure for the condition.”

    To raise extra funds wristbands will be on sale at both events with all the money going towards Pulmonary Fibrosis NI. You can also purchase these by contacting Shauna on her personal Facebook.

  • Total raised in memory of local farmer reaches £31,000

    Total raised in memory of local farmer reaches £31,000

    THE total amount of monies raised in memory of local farmer Christy Hamilton now stands at an astonishing £31k.

    Christy’s eldest daughter, Georgia initially made a touching gesture by selling one of her lambs named ‘Sleepy the Sheep’ at Donemana Mart, raising over £19,171 for Air Ambulance NI. This act of kindness was followed by a further £11,829 raised at Christy’s funeral, with donations made in lieu of flowers.

    Christy Hamilton tragically passed away at the age of 41 last September due to a heart attack while attending to his animals, leaving behind his four young daughters and wife Joanne.

    The Hamilton and McGerrigle family recently the cheque for £31k to staff from the Air Ambulance at the charity’s base in Lisburn. The donation will directly contribute to the operation of Air Ambulance NI, potentially saving the lives of eight individuals over four days of service.

    Mr Hamilton’s sister-in-law Joanne McGerrigle told the Strabane Chronicle, “We as a family are so grateful, never mind the staff and volunteers at Air Ambulance who were also overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of family, friends and local community.

    “We cannot thank everyone enough for their kindness and support over the past few months.”

    Area fundraising manager for Air Ambulance Damien McAnespie said, “This is an incredible and huge donation. We would like to thank the family for their incredible generosity at what has been such a a tragic time.

    “The people of the entire area of Dunamanagh and Plumbridge have been amazing.”

    He added, “The money will pay directly for four days of call-outs for our helicopter. We roughly go out twice a day so it could save eight people’s lives.”

    Sleepy the sheep is now living in Gortin under the care of six-year-old Alanagh Daly and her family who have ensured he went to a great home.

  • Moy woman taking on marathon challenge for Air Ambulance

    Moy woman taking on marathon challenge for Air Ambulance

    A MOY woman has said she is delighted to be running her first marathon to raise essential funds for the North’s Air Ambulance.

    On Sunday, May 5, Monica Kelly will be part of the ‘26.2 Crew’, a select group of first timers supporting each other through this year’s Moy Park Belfast City Marathon.

    As training for the marathon takes place, Mrs Kelly said she will be completing her first full marathon with her husband John, who is a seasoned marathon runner.

    She said, “In September 2023, we both ran the Moy Park Belfast City Half Marathon as part of #TeamAirAmbulanceNI and raised over £1,000 for this amazing service.

    “We understand the value of the service as we have neighbours who work as part of the HEMS team and are delighted we can support them in this way.”

    Mrs Kelly says she thoroughly enjoys being part of the ‘26.2 Crew’ ambassador group, who have offered her such great support and guidance, giving her confidence in her marathon journey.

    “If you’re thinking about doing the marathon or getting some friends together to do the team relay or eight-mile walk, sign up today. You won’t regret it.”

    Air Ambulance NI’s area fundraising manager, Grace Williams, said that Monica and John are great friends of the charity and they are so grateful to them for their continued support.

    She said, “We were delighted when Monica agreed to be our representative and we are so pleased that she and the rest of the ‘26.2 Crew’ will be supporting the charity in the marathon while gaining so much confidence and experience being part of this team.

    “Funds raised will help people in your community who require pre-hospital critical care on the scene.

    “The medical team in Northern Ireland are needed on average twice per day.”

    You can register now for the eight-mile walk, team relay, half marathon and full marathon at www.belfastcitymarathon.com.

    If you would like to support Monica’s fundraising efforts, please visit www.eventmaster.ie/fundraising/pages/MK98766133

  • Loreto students to host Gala in aid of Lusaka school project

    Loreto students to host Gala in aid of Lusaka school project

    TWELVE Loreto Grammar School students in Omagh have been selected to participate in the ‘Loreto to Lusaka’ project that will see them travel to Lusaka in October in conjunction with the Spirit of Paul McGirr Foundation.

    Pledging to raise £15,000 for phase one of the construction and development of a home economics classroom and foot store at the Tyrone Secondary School in Zambia, the students hope that this will help provide one hot meal per day for up to 800 pupils.

    The students are paying their own fare so that all proceeds raised will go directly to the people of Lusaka’s St Teresa’s parish, which is on the verge of a large slum area in the Zambian region.

    As part of their fundraising ventures, the Loreto students are hosting a Gala Dinner on Friday, March 1 in the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh.

    Tickets to the Gala are £70 and are still available via the Loreto Grammar School.

    If you’re interested in purchasing a ticket you can call the school on 028 82243633 and request to speak to Ms Ryan.

    The Gala will include a drinks reception, followed by a delicious three-course meal. Malachi Cush will MC the event and there will be spot prizes and a raffle with super prizes donated by some very generous sponsors, with a DJ to close the evening’s festivities.

    The Loreto students look forward to welcoming you to the Gala Dinner for such a worthy cause.

  • Loreto student receives volunteering award

    Loreto student receives volunteering award

    A KIND-HEARTED Loreto Grammar student has received a very special award after completing 200 hours of volunteering.

    Caitlin Slevin is passionate about helping people in her community who have autism, and this month, she received her ‘Gold 200 hours EPIC Award’ in recognition of her inspirational efforts.

    As part of her volunteering journey, Caitlin underwent 10-12 weeks of training; where she completed an OCN in Disability Awareness, leadership training and autism awareness.

    After this, she transitioned into the ‘Buddy’ programme where she undertook her role as a buddy to support the ASD members.

    In terms of support for ASD members, Caitlin engages with the young people, encourages them to take part in activities, talks about their interests and helps give them more confidence within themselves to participate in the weekly activities.

    Become a volunteer today

    EPIC (Empowering People In Communities) is completely free, and open to volunteers of all ages and for all types of volunteering.

    To qualify for an EPIC Award, volunteers must make a commitment of at least 50 hours, within any 12-month period. These hours can be gained through volunteering with one organisation, or with multiple organisations simultaneously.

    Martin Cassidy, volunteer co-ordinator of Omagh Volunteer Centre, described volunteering as ‘perfect for anyone looking to give something back to their community’.

    “There are small things we can do for ourselves, and for each other, that make a big difference,” Martin, who is also a volunteer himself, said. “Many organisations now offer flexible, short-term and even remote volunteering opportunities.

    “So, whether you work in a busy full-time role, or you’re about to retire with a little more time on your hands, you should be able to find a volunteering opportunity that’s right for you.”

    If you would like to become a volunteer in a role that is right for you, with suitable hours, please contact Omagh Volunteer Centre now on 02882240772. For more information, please visit www.omaghvolunteercentre.org/epic-awards

  • Omagh venue to host fundraising ‘Gig for Gaza’

    Omagh venue to host fundraising ‘Gig for Gaza’

    MUSICIANS from across the Omagh area are getting together tonight to play a gig to raise money to pay for medical aid in Gaza.

    Proceeds from the ‘Gig for Gaza’ will benefit MAP, a non-political organisation that provides immediate medical aid to those in great need, while also developing local capacity and skills to ensure the long-term development of the Palestinian healthcare system.

    According to the UN, since the latest bombing of Gaza began on October 7 of last year, some 300 healthcare workers have been killed.

    The fundraiser in Omagh will takes place on Friday, February 9 at the Top of the Town bar and features artists including Luke Bell, Louise Coyle, Bantam & Fowl, Stout Talk, Bronagh Broderick and the Knotty Pine String Band.

    Donal Griffin, one of the organisers of the event, said he and a group of others were inspired to put on the show after seeing the harrowing pictures of the invasion of Gaza.

    He said, “When you see the pictures coming from Palestine it is hard to not react to the horrifying things you are seeing. I and a group of other people, including John McGirr who owns the Top of the Town and musician Colin McKane, got together to organise this show.

    “We were inspired by the large number of concerts that have already taken place to raise money for MAP all across Ireland and we wanted to do the same.”

    Mr Griffin added, “I want to thank all the musicians for taking part and doing the show.”

    Drumquin musician, Luke Bell, said that he was glad that local musicians were willing to play the night.

    He said, “It’s great to see so many musicians supporting the people of Gaza by doing fundraising gigs. It’s nice that we can use music to do that sort of thing, and I’m thankful for the opportunity; there’s going to be some talented acts on the night so be sure to come out.”

    For more information about the event, you can visit the Top of the Town Facebook page.