Leitrim’s Michelle Duffy planning a St Stephen's Day football clash with a difference for Vision Ireland


Fun-filled St Stephen's Day football match: “Team Santas” versus “Team Elves”
Leitrim’s Michelle Duffy is showing how a little creativity and a lot of heart can create lasting change.
Earlier this year, Michelle teamed up with her friend Mary Faughan to take part in Gortletteragh GAA Club’s “Quid Games” fundraiser, choosing Vision Ireland as their charity of choice, a cause close to Michelle’s heart.
With determination and a flair for community spirit, Michelle and Mary rallied local support, gathered donations, and even organised a lively jive night to boost excitement and funds for the charity. The results were nothing short of spectacular.
Together, Michelle and Mary raised an incredible €1,000 for Vision Ireland, and their dedication didn’t go unnoticed. The Gortletteragh GAA club generously contributed an additional €750 to the two fundraisers who raised the most funds, bringing the total to an astounding €1,750 for Vision Ireland!
But Michelle isn’t stopping there. This St. Stephen’s Day, she’s back with another feel-good event that promises to bring the community together once again.
At 2pm on December 26, Gortletteragh GAA Club will host the ultimate showdown as “Team Santas” faces off against “Team Elves”!
This fun-filled football match is sure to be the talk of the season, and all proceeds will go towards Vision Ireland’s essential services.
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The Inspiration Behind the Mission Michelle’s beloved eight-year-old niece, Rosemary, who lives with Bardet Biedel Syndrome. Rosemary is a spirited and inspiring young girl who has formed a close bond with her Vision Ireland Community Resource Worker, Katelinn Hogan. Through Katelinn’s invaluable support for Rosemary and her family, Michelle has seen firsthand the profound impact Vision Ireland’s services can have. These services empower thousands of people living with sight loss across Ireland to lead full, independent lives.
You Can Make a Difference, Too! Michelle’s story is a reminder of the extraordinary impact that fundraising can have. For people living with sight loss, every euro raised for Vision Ireland translates into empowering services, such as mobility training, emotional support, and practical resources that help individuals maintain their independence and confidence.
Inspired by Michelle’s incredible efforts? You can be part of this mission! Whether it’s organising a bake sale, planning a fun run, or hosting your own unique community event, every contribution helps Vision Ireland continue to provide crucial services to those who need them most.
Reach out to Vision Ireland’s Foundation Team at [email protected] to get started. Together, we can build a brighter future for those living with sight loss across Ireland.
A special thank you to:
- Gortletteragh GAA Club: The club executives, the fundraising committee especially Marie Prunty, for their support during the fundraisers and helping spreading the awareness for Vision Ireland.
- You can support Vision Ireland by popping into one of our stores: - Longford: Unit 6 and 7 Grafton Court, Longford Town. - Leitrim: Main Street, Carrick on Shannon.