30 January 2024

Five-time All Ireland winning Kerry footballer and CRY Ireland ambassador, Aidan O’Mahony, is gearing up for another remarkable journey as he prepares to conquer the iconic Camino de Santigo. This venture is more than just a personal challenge for O'Mahony; it's a heartfelt initiative to raise crucial funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY Ireland). The ‘Camino For CRY’ fundraising trip will commence on the 6th September 2024. 

Joining Aidan on the trip is CRY Trustee Liam Herlihy. In 2011, Liam sadly lost his daughter Niamh as a result of Sudden Cardiac Death at just 21 years old. Ever since, Liam and his family are screened regularly at the CRY Centre and work tirelessly to raise funds to support the charity. Aidan and Liam are asking people to join them this September and help raise funds for CRY.

Speaking at the launch of the Camino For CRY initiative, Aidan O’Mahony said: "The Camino trip provides an avenue to escape and detach from reality. It serves as a space to commune with nature while simultaneously delving into an adventure of self-discovery and focusing on personal well-being. The journey becomes even more meaningful as it contributes to raising funds for CRY Ireland.”

Aidan added: “Leading the team on two previous occasions in 2019 and 2022, I witnessed the start of lifelong friendships and was profoundly touched by the stories shared by those impacted by Sudden Cardiac Death, highlighting the invaluable support provided by CRY. I am excited to participate yet again this year and extend an invitation for others to join me on this meaningful endeavour."

Lucia Ebbs, CEO of CRY Ireland: “Those who have been affected and taken part in previous years have found the Camino journey to be a valuable moment to be able to come together and create new connections with similar people. This fundraiser has proven instrumental in aiding CRY's mission, providing crucial support to those affected. This year's contributions will enable us to sustain our commitment to families dealing with the aftermath of Sudden Cardiac Death, offering essential services such as bereavement supports and our CRY Freephone Helpline which is an invaluable resource for those in need through our family support programme."

CRY Ireland provides assistance to individuals and families impacted by Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) and those living with inherited cardiac conditions. Support is extended through our family support programme. CRY also offers a freephone helpline, which provides a compassionate listening ear to those affected by these cardiac issues across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

For more information or to register interest, please visit www.cry.ie.