Following a recent tractor run and charity night dedicated to the memory of Paddy Simpson at Glenn GAC, an astounding £13,286.83 was donated to the local charity PIPS Hope and Support.
The tractor run and charity night took place on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Glenn GAC in Newry, who were the main host. The dad-of-two died suddenly at home in January.
It attracted a remarkable number of community members, friends, volunteers, and supporters, all united in the common goal of advancing awareness and wellbeing in honour of Paddy.
The event was organised with utmost care and commitment by the Byrne and Simpson families. It was a heartening success and will significantly assist PIPS Hope and Support in providing and expanding their range of vital services.
These services include counselling, support groups, and educational initiatives, offering a lifeline to individuals, understanding, and hope.
During the cheque presentation, main organisers Cathal and Michelle Byrne expressed gratitude to everyone who helped make the event a success in Paddy’s memory.
They said: “As a family, we are thankful to the countless individuals, groups, and businesses who supported the tractor run and charity night in memory of our beloved family member and friend, Paddy.
“It was heartening to see the community come together in Paddy’s memory and raise such a substantial amount. This donation will undoubtedly assist PIPS Hope and Support in providing necessary support to individuals and families across the community. As there are too many to thank individually, we hope that everyone involved accepts our sincere thanks for their kindness and generosity.”
PIPS Hope and Support’s Padraig Harte echoed the comments saying: “PIPS Hope and Support express our sincere gratitude to all the individuals, groups, and businesses who generously participated in and supported the tractor run and charity night.
“The dedication to honouring Paddy while raising a substantial amount of funds for our charity is truly commendable. These funds will greatly assist us in providing crisis support to individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts, high levels of anxiety, poor mental health, as well as support for those who have been bereaved by suicide.
Padraig continued: “We would like to extend a special thank you to Michelle, Cathal, and the Byrne and Simpson families for their unwavering commitment and hard work in organising such a heartening event.
“Their significant donation will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of those we support. Once again, we are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received. It is through the collective efforts of our community that we can continue to provide vital assistance to those in need.”
