Thanks to local heroes, Michael’s rolling toward his dream farm quad
Excitement builds as Drumshanbo boy edges closer to farming freedom
There were warm smiles and full hearts in Kilclare on May 11th as over €7,000 was raised at a Coffee Morning hosted in LOCK10 to support eight-year-old Michael Barry from Drumshanbo.
Michael, who lives with a rare genetic condition called Contiguous XP21 Deletion Syndrome, has never walked unaided and uses a wheelchair. But that hasn’t stopped him from dreaming big — especially when it comes to farming.
His dream? A custom all-terrain vehicle so he can explore the family farm alongside his dad, just like any other young farmer. Organised by the Kelly family, the fundraiser saw a huge turnout, with donations, prizes, and a strong sense of local pride filling the room.
Michael’s dad, Cllr Brendan Barry, said the family was blown away by the support — and even more touched by how excited Michael is becoming.
“He’s looking at petrol and diesel models now, planning which one he’ll pick. He’s very excited — this has brought so much joy into his life already,” Brendan said.
The Barry family — Brendan, Nicola, and Michael’s sister Shauna — thanked the Kellys and everyone who came out to support. “We’re just so grateful. This means the world to Michael and to all of us,” Nicola added.
The special vehicle will allow Michael to travel safely across the rough terrain of the farm, thanks to its enclosed cab and proper seating. With more than €7,000 raised at the coffee morning, plus over €13,000 already donated online, the family is now in reach of their €20,000 target.
You can help bring Michael’s dream quad home by donating at: gofundme.com/f/help-michael-barry-enjoy-being-out-and-about-and-farming