An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir February 2019 www.dfmagazine.ie 8 | REPORT & PHOTOS BY TADHG CROWLEY 'Sing or Swim for Noel' In support of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) O n Saturday 5th January 2019 a fundraising event 'Sing or Swim for Noel' was organised to support retired Defence Forces Captain Noel Shannon who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2016. Noel is a former Area Manager with the National Learning Network which he took up after retiring with over 21 years' service with the Defence Forces. The 'Sing or Swim for Noel' fundraising event was organised by Assistant Manager Padraig Healy of the National Learning Network in Hollyhill Cork in a show of support for Noel, who is his long-time colleague and friend. The event took place at Fountainstown Beach and saw over a hundred people turn out to swim on the day in harmony with Noel. A large number of supporters jumped in for the invigorating swim, serenaded by the Band of the Defence Forces as well as a great group of traditional musicians. With a huge set-up by the Defence Forces' 1 Brigade and the Irish Coast- guard providing safety and support to everyone taking part. A great day was had by all, as everyone enjoyed the hot soup, endless cakes, tea, coffee, music, and comradery in support of Noel. The event on the day raised over €5,664, which was donated on the day directly to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA), who is the only organisation of its kind providing care and support to people with Mo- tor Neurone Disease, their families, friends, and carers. You can still donate to this great cause using the online link which will remain active until March: www.idonate.ie/SingOrSwim. Noel Shannon with former colleagues, (L/R): Lt Col Sean Dunne and Comdt Eamon Kennelly. Volunteers collecting donations including Eileen O'Keeffe and her daughter of Cork Rock Choir, Noel's wife Angela Shannon, Adrian Brady, James Hyde, Stacey Birmingham and Crystal Long of the National Learning Network. Members of the Irish Coast Guard are pictured with Noel Shannon. Pictured are DF members from Collins Barracks who kindly volunteered and provided refreshments and tents. They include: Lt Col Sean Dunne, Brig Gen Patrick Flynn (GOC 1 Bde), and Comdt Eamon Kennelly. Noel Shannon's two daughters, son and wife are pictured at the starting line. They are (L/R): Orlaith, Eoin, Angela, and Sadhbh. Group photo of swimmers who volunteered for the swim.

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