Longford CF campaigner Jillian McNulty busy finalising Valentine's Ball plans

It is the month of love and the eagerly anticipated Valentine’s Ball for Cystic Fibrosis, organised by Longford woman Jillian McNulty, takes place in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone on Saturday, February 24.

One of the country’s leading CF campaigners, Jillian is really looking forward to the Valentine’s Ball.

“It's a wonderful annual event and is now in its 7th year. There is a drinks reception accompanied by Harpist Aine McLoughlin, followed by a four course meal, with dancing late into the night with band & DJ by 'Going Live' who have been incredibly generous and have played free of charge for the last six years in support of Cystic Fibrosis.”

To-date, the Valentine’s Ball for CF has raised approximately €55,000.

Jillian remarked, “I couldn't have done this without the continued support of those who attend year after year, to the many businesses who donate yearly, to everyone that buys a raffle ticket or makes a donation. It is an incredible feeling handing over the cheques each year. It also gives me a focus year to year to stay healthy and distracted when I do end up in hospital. I always need a goal to work towards.”

The reason Jillian hosts and organises the ball is to create not only awareness for Cystic Fibrosis but also to raise much needed funds.

She explained, “Each year, to date, 90% of the proceeds go to both Cystic Fibrosis Ireland & the CF Ward, St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin which is Ireland's centre of excellence for CF care. The final 10% of proceeds each year goes to a nominated charity, this year's chosen charity is Feileacain, the miscarriage and infant loss charity who do incredible work around the country supporting families who find themselves in the most difficult and tragic circumstances.”

In conjunction with the ball, there is also a raffle with some amazing prizes (tickets will be on sale in Longford Centre, SuperValu & Dunnes Stores over the next few weekends and they can also be purchased on the night).

Jillian said, “I'm so thankful to the many businesses for their generous donations prizes which include Dyson Hoover, €200 cash sponsored by Patrick Hanlon, Gala & Matt O'Brien Fashions, Longford, many fantastic hotel stays including Mount Falcon and the Spanish Armada. And the much sought after ‘Walk on Part’ in RTÉ’s Fair City.”

For Valentine’s Ball guests a complimentary return bus is being provided by Shane Carrigy Coaches, with collection points in Longford town, Kenagh and Ballymahon, and Jillian also thanked Shane for his generosity.

Ticket enquiries for the Valentine’s Ball for Cystic Fibrosis can be made to valentinesballforcf@ hotmail.com