Offaly woman to do a Tandem Parachute jump for local charities

THE official launch of Ann Sheppard’s fundraiser for the Ashling Murphy Memorial fund and Offaly Hospice got off to a flying start in Dan & Molly's, Ballyboy recently.

Ann, despite her fear of heights, has decided to do a tandem parachute jump on August 5th to raise money for these worthy causes. Ann has taken on this challenge as she has great respect for both charities, and both are remarkably close to her heart. Ann lost close family members to cancer and she was overwhelmed with the support the family got from Offaly Hospice, especially the palliative care team. Ann feels that what she is doing is a way to give back to this charity and hopefully with the funds raised Offaly Hospice Palliative Care team will be in a position to continue to help families that need support.

Ashling Murphy became known to Ann when Ann’s daughter went to Ballyboy Comhaltas and Ashling was her daughter’s tutor. Ashling’s unwavering passion for music and teaching and kindheartedness will always be fondly remembered by Ann.

The launch was supported by friends and family from the community who came together for fantastic music provided by Ballboy Comhaltas and Ann’s niece Sadhbh, in the beautiful surroundings and friendly atmosphere of Dan and Molly’s.

A raffle was held on the evening with fabulous spot prises that were kindly sponsored by: Racket Hall, Roscrea; Supervalu, Roscrea; Lidl, Roscrea; Frawley’s Chemist, Roscrea; David O Meara Pharmacy Plus, Birr Euro Giant, Roscrea; Boulabán Ice-cream and Dan and Molly’s pub.

Ann would like to thank all who came to the launch and especially their special guest, Offaly Rose, Allie Leahy, and the three Kavanagh brothers, who were part of the Offaly U-20 panel. Thanks also to Ashling’s parents Kathleen & Raymond, to the musicians, to Catriona and all her family and friends. A special thanks to Eimear Buckley for supporting and organsing the launch and setting up the iDonate page.

Ann is extremely grateful to her husband and children for their support throughout the years while she looked after her sister and mother when they needed her most.

A huge appreciation to all who have already donated, your generosity will help both of these fantastic charities. You can donate on iDonate page: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/AnnSheppard or on sponsorship cards.

Ann will make the Jump on August 5th– keep an eye on her iDonate page for more updates.