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‘Connected’ students leading an awareness campaign around issues of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia

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By Michelle Crean

 

Eight Transition Year students from Killarney called ‘The Connected Four’ are leading an awareness campaign around the issues of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia.

As part of their Young Social Innovators (YSI) project, the students from Killarney Community College want to highlight the lack of education around these conditions saying there isn't enough accessible resources and supporting communities.

The Connected Four, who are Luke O’Sullivan, Rachel Griffin, Lulu Healy, Amy O’Donoghue, Eva Ryan Lynch, Keelyn O’Leary, Lauren Fleming and Jack O’Connell, believe that change is needed not just because there isn’t enough information on the conditions, but because there’s so much stigma.

“The reason why we chose this issue is, we all know someone, either family or friend who has been diagnosed with one or more of these conditions," Luke O’Sullivan said.

"As for most of the members in our YSI group, they have recognised the flaws in our society. Whereas, from the inside looking out, I can confirm experience of misunderstanding and the overall lack of education in our community.”

MAKING AN IMPRESSION

On Wednesday, Luke, Rachel and Eva, were the only school in Kerry, and just one of 10 projects in Munster, to take part at the YSI ‘Dragon’s Den’ via Zoom where they wowed the judges.

Paul Kelly from Unilever, Tim Butler from Virgin Media and Mary Roche from Tusla were impressed with the pitch and presentation which included an idea of creating a children's book of stories, aimed at Junior Infants to Second Class, around the four conditions with the theme of diversity.

The students received a cheque for €500 from the dragons to invest in their project. They have also been offered mentoring from Paul Kelly, Marketing Developer of Unilever, to guide them in the right direction with their book.

“The passion, the knowledge, the energy that the students showed on the day left the dragons ‘gobsmacked’! I am so proud of each and every one of these students and the initiative they show, even throughout lockdown, is an inspiration to all,” Lorraine Crowley, YSI Guide from KCC said

The group have very active social media accounts and a new YouTube channel is also being set up by the group to voice people's experiences and knowledge from interviews they are currently doing remotely online.

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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