Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

In October 2018 I have committed to swimming 3.9km in The Great Fjord Swim and then, three weeks later, running the Dublin City Marathon.

I have never swam this distance before, and the furthest I have run before now is 10k. I have chosen to push myself so that together with others who support SBHI, we can raise €50k during our 50th anniversary year.

SBHI provides vital services which are not fully funded, in order to do this we fundraise and apply for grants. One such source of these grants is National Lottery Funding (NLF). 

For many years SBHI received a steady amount from the NLF to help fund respite services - a vital break for the families and for those who live with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. This year we have received a reduction of over €50,000 - this represents over 50% of the funding received in previous years.

The HSE, who administer the NLF, contend that they have had to use the money traditionally given to organisations supporting those with disabilities to those assisting the elderly and therefore there has been a reduction in funding.

Here at SBHI we want to keep our respite services going even in the face of such cruel cuts. This is why myself and many others will be taking on the 50 for 50 Challenge, and raising €50k for SBHI.

Your support, of any amount, is greatly appreciated - thank you so much for believing in us and donating in this way. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.