Write a commentLocal athlete, and Chairman of ‘Run for Autism’ charity Seán Quinn, is running his first ever Marathon in Dublin on 28th October for Dementia. It's in memory of his mother Bernadette who passed away in February this year.
Well renowned for his charity work, Lissummon native Seán who now lives in Newtownhamilton has spent the past 10 years fundraising to help those living with Autism, and their families across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon and Newry, Mourne and Down Districts with over £250k raised to date and invested in local projects.
However, this year Seán has decided to do a solo Run for Dementia in memory of his mum whilst also fundraising to support local dementia projects in Armagh and Newry.
There are around 20,000 people living with Dementia here in Northern Ireland.
Dementia can and does affect people of any age, but is more common after the age of 65 years. It is a progressive illness that affects how your brain works and in particular the ability to remember, think and reason. It interferes with your ability to do things you used to be able to manage, such as looking after yourself.
Counting down the final days to the big race, Seán explained: “I'm really excited and looking forward to run my first ever Marathon in Dublin this week. Everyone who knows me calls me the 'Run for Autism' man. I've never had the time to train for a marathon before but this year I'm making time, and I'm going to do it in my mum's name and for those living with dementia.
“I’m hoping to raise enough funds to provide suitable garden furniture for two local Private Nursing Homes which support those living with dementia in Armagh and Newry. So all funds raised will be given directly to these projects initially. I'll publicly be posting how much was eventually raised and am looking forward to seeing the residents make use of the furniture whilst enjoying the great outdoors.
Seán added: “We have all been touched by dementia in some way in our lives and I just thought I wanted to do something to help others, and well what better way than to run a marathon. I am grateful for all the support I’ve been given to date during my months’ of training and for the generous donations from many family, friends and colleagues. Together we can always make a difference, no matter how little!”
To help support these dementia projects you can donate to Sean’s Just Giving Page. Www.justgiving.com or if you meet him on the road training, give him a wave or thumbs up for support!
