Kerry footballer James O’Donoghue has launched a charity walk in aid of Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI).

David McCarthy AADI Kieran Corcoran (Owner) James O' Donoghue Shane O' Callaghan (CFO) Mikayla Corcoran (Operations) and Buzz

This year Corcoran’s Furniture and Carpets is supporting AADI and the charity walks is just one of many events that the Killarney-based company will support.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 8 through the iconic Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney AADI family, Darragh Cattigan, his mum, Áine, and star of the show, Darragh’s super-hero dog, Buzz, also attended the launch in support of the walk.

“I am thrilled to be supporting the Corcoran’s charity walk in aid of AADI, and I am looking forward to taking part on the day. AADI is a wonderful charity that makes a genuine difference to children with Autism and their families,” said All-Ireland medallist James O’ Donoghue.

“The dog’s help to reduce anxiety and to promote independence, with their priority being to make sure that the child is safe. We are lucky to live in one of the most stunning locations in Ireland, and the Gap of Dunloe is a walk that's not to be missed. I am looking forward to meeting all the fundraisers on the day in support of this very worthy cause.”

Áine Cattigan spoke about the importance of their AADI dog Buzz, and the difference that Buzz has made to their family, she said:

“We as a family feel beyond grateful that Buzz has come into our lives. It is hard to put into words the difference that our phenomenal Autism assistance dog has made to us. When we go out in public, we are now safe in the knowledge that Buzz will help to keep Darragh away from harm. As they are joined by a lead tied around Darragh’s waist, Buzz prevents him from potentially bolting into ongoing traffic, or from running off. Buzz also helps to keep Darragh calm, and they have a genuine bond that is a joy to behold. As Darragh’s mother, I am now able to go on outings with just the two of us without worrying, this allows my husband and my other sons to enjoy valuable family time together also. Buzz has changed our entire world; we are forever grateful for him, and we are delighted to support Corcoran’s charity walk for AADI in any way that we can.”

The aim of Corcoran’s Gap of Dunloe walk is to raise as much funds as possible for AADI, with a minimum fundraising target of €100 per person (this includes the cost of the boat trip and lunch).

The event is pre-booking only, and Corcoran’s invite people of all ages to sign up and join this exciting day out for a truly worthy cause.

Registration on the day of the walk, for those who have pre-booked, will commence at 9.30am on Saturday, 8 June at Ross Castle, Killarney.

The boats will depart at 10.30am, taking all participants on an hour-long journey through the stunning lakes of Killarney.

This will be followed by an 11K walk (approximately 2.5 – 3 hours) from Lord Brandon’s Cottage to Kate Kearny’s cottage, where lunch will be served upon completion of the walk.

Corcoran’s Furniture will provide a complimentary bus service back to Ross Castle for all those participating in the fundraising event. All funds raised will go directly towards the training of an assistance dog.

To register for the walk, please contact AADI via: : https://www.autismassistancedogsireland.ie/event/view/corcorans-gap-of-dunloe

Once registration is completed participants will receive an AADI fundraising pack and a t-shirt in support of the event.