VIRTUAL FUNDRAISER: MS South Kerry who support people with Multiple Sclerosis have launched a virtual fundraiser. Pictured are: Kaye Fleming and Jillian O’Sullivan. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

MS South Kerry - who are continuing to operate their vital services for members - have launched a fundraiser to help alleviate costs. Unable to hold their usual fundraisers such as the famous Busking Day, Flag Day and Old Kenmare Walk due to the impact of COVID-19 - they opted instead to set up a GoFundMe page and have launched a virtual '100k in May' with a €3,000 goal.

The impact of Coronavirus has been unimaginable for all charities across the board in 2020 and 2021 including those supporting people with Multiple Sclerosis, explained Jillian O'Sullivan from the local branch.

"Our branch members have ever changing needs regarding their mobility aids and lifestyle. We want to be able to support them in every way we can."

She added that all exercise and physio classes have moved online.

"We are currently holding five classes per week catering for different levels of mobilities at a cost of €50 per class. With the rollout of vaccines, additional services will be coming back online but without fundraising the branch will not be able to support our members such as one to one therapies including reflexology, massage and chiropody. We work with Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) and Home Instead to provide further support to members, again fundraising is needed for these services."

For information about how to get involved in this fundraiser email mssouthkerry@gmail.com.

"If you would like to get involved, please support us through GoFundMe: 100K in May for MS South Kerry or
mysplink.com/msireland/southkerrybranch."

Those who may need support can contact Community Welfare Officer Siobhan Lynch who is based in Killarney, the MS Society, Southern Regional Office, North Quay House, Pope’s Quay, Cork.

T: 021 4300001, F: 021 4300523, email: southern@ms-society.ie, or the MS Information Line: 1850 233 233