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Ireland’s oldest man “full of energy and hope” after getting first dose of vaccine

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By Michelle Crean

 

Ireland's oldest man, 107-year-old Michael O'Connor, this week said that he is looking forward to "life without fear" after receiving the first dose of the Comirnaty Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine on Wednesday.

 

[caption id="attachment_36141" align="alignleft" width="503"] RELIEF: Ireland's oldest man Michael O'Connor (107) was relieved after receiving the Pfizer vaccine to protect against COVID-19. He's pictured with Dr Eleanor Johnson, Dr Ken Keohane and Dr Darren Quirke at Deenagh Torc Medical Practice, Reeks Gateway. Photo: Eamonn Keogh[/caption]

Michael, from Muckross, was one of many older residents in the community who was administered the vaccine by Dr Eleanor Johnson and Dr Ken Keohane at Deenagh Torc Medical Practice, Reeks Gateway, on Wednesday morning as part of the rollout for people over the age of 85 years.

"The whole experience was wonderful," Michael told the Killarney Advertiser this week.

"I'm delighted to have the vaccine and the reception I got on arrival was unbelievable. They gave me a standing ovation. I felt I was at a party, such was the joyous atmosphere. After a year at home, it was great to see them all. Afterwards, I was very tired and slept a lot, but today (Thursday), I'm full of energy and hope. I'm looking forward to the second vaccine, and, please God, life without fear."

Micheal was born in Glencar and wasn’t expected to live past the age of six after contracting the Spanish Flu over 100 years ago. He has also lived through the War of Independence, the Civil War, World War One and Two.

Michael's daughter Maureen added that he was excited to be out and about after being housebound for a whole year due to fear of contracting the virus, and was "mesmerised" by everything he saw.
"He was happy out. Everything went well. The sun was hitting the rocks and he said that "there was hope for the future"."

He is set to receive his second dose of the vaccine in four weeks time on St Patrick's Day.

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A winter ascent of the MacGillycuddy Reeks is always special

Killarney resident and experienced mountaineer Melissa Trant recently shared incredible photographs and her account of climbing the snow-capped MacGillycuddy Reeks, highlighting the unique experience of the mountain range during winter. […]

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Killarney resident and experienced mountaineer Melissa Trant recently shared incredible photographs and her account of climbing the snow-capped MacGillycuddy Reeks, highlighting the unique experience of the mountain range during winter.

The MacGillycuddy Reeks at Christmas time offer a cure for whatever the heart needs, whether it is peace, relaxation, or reflection. Melissa described spending time there as magical at any point of the year, but particularly during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow.
Climbing one of the winter routes on Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, requires essential safety gear, including crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet, making the experience “incredibly exciting and fun.”
Melissa said that she enjoys visiting the stunning peaks of the MacGillycuddy Reeks often because it is a place she can never get enough of. She finds that mountains make her feel alive, giving her joy, thrill, satisfaction, and peace. She added that the feeling of tranquility and calm on the mountains encompasses every ounce of her.
With Ireland’s finest and highest mountain range on our doorstep in Killarney, Melissa said she feels blessed to be able to head up whenever the mountains are calling

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Kilcummin GAA announces return of annual Pink Night

The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3. Now in […]

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The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3.

Now in its 12th year, the event will support Comfort for Chemo for the fifth year running. The evening promises both fun and fundraising for the charity.

Guests will be greeted with a Prosecco reception and chocolate-dipped strawberries to start the post-Christmas celebration.
While attendees are encouraged to wear pink, dressing up is optional, with the focus on community and support for the cause. Prizes will be awarded for Best Dressed Female and Best Dressed Male.

The event begins at 8:00pm. Entertainment will be provided by Derry and Rosie Healy followed by Barry McGrath playing late into the night.

A raffle and door prizes, kindly provided by local sponsors, will take place on the night. Committee member Kathleen Ryan said the continued support of the local sponsors is deeply appreciated.

Admission to the event is free, and all are welcome to attend the celebration.

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