Carlow College’s Catering team presented a cheque for €1,710 to CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) Ireland today (30th January) after fundraising throughout 2024 through a series of events.

Leading the initiative was Carlow College’s Catering Manager, Julie Lyons, who organised raffle sales, the annual Christmas Dinner, and various other events which saw the Carlow College and wider community rally in support of CRY Ireland.

Speaking at the cheque presentation, Julie expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed:

“I am honoured and proud to announce that together, we have raised an amazing €1,710 for this very worthy cause. This would not have been possible without the phenomenal support shown by all staff, students and the wider College community. On behalf of myself and CRY, I want to say a huge thank you for your ongoing and continued support.”

Of course, no fundraiser would have been complete without Winnie Lyons, Julie’s mother, whose enthusiasm and dedication to selling raffle tickets ensured that everyone had a chance to contribute.

The funds were presented to Elaine Whelan, a representative from CRY Ireland, who thanked the Carlow College community for their generosity and commitment to supporting young people affected by cardiac conditions. Speaking at the event, Elaine spoke about how CRY is there to support anyone affected by Sudden Adult Death Syndrome, and how they could not offer the support to those affected as they do without the continued support of community initiatives like this.

About CRY: CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) Ireland is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising awareness of sudden cardiac death and providing free clinical assessments to families affected by inherited cardiac conditions. Their Family Support Programme offers access to listening volunteers, mentors, and bereavement specialists. Additionally, CRY supports research into the causes and prevention of sudden cardiac death in collaboration with other like-minded bodies.