The friends of an Armagh hero who lost his life saving that of another have launched a fundraising effort in “honour of his selflessness”.
In May 2023, Patrick ‘Paddy’ Fearon (30) had only just moved to Belfast from Armagh when he jumped into the River Lagan to save a young woman in distress.
On that fateful day, Paddy had thrown the woman a life ring but subsequently leapt into the water to ensure she was secured to it.
And, while the young woman’s life was saved by Paddy’s selfless actions, he sadly did not make it out alive.
Related: Armagh mum’s heartache as son dies a hero trying to save young woman from river
Two years on from his tragic death, his “dear friend” Conor Shannon has launched a fundraising effort on behalf of Community Search and Rescue who were the first on scene to find and recover Paddy in an attempt to save his life.
In order to raise these funds, Conor has committed to running the Belfast Half Marathon in September, together with another of Paddy’s close friends, Jonathan Rice.
Of Community Search and Rescue, Conor said: “As the only accredited lowland rescue team in Northern Ireland, they work closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to respond to high-risk incidents and search for vulnerable missing persons across the province.
“Their volunteers risk their lives every day, just as Paddy did, to keep our communities safe.
“Every penny raised will help provide the equipment, training and resources these incredible volunteers need to continue their life-saving work.
“Please join me in celebrating Paddy’s final act of heroism by supporting the brave men and women of Community Rescue Service. Together, we can turn one young man’s selfless sacrifice into a lasting force for good.”
The pair had set an initial target of £1,500 and have already surpassed a total of £3,00 in less than a week.
You can make a donation to the GoFundMe page here.
