Schmidt supports Saddle Up For Epilepsy
IRELAND rugby head coach Joe Schmidt has launched the 2017 National Saddle Up For Epilepsy and Epilepsy Ireland’s Strategic Plan (2017-2021) in the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, Dublin.
The National Saddle Up For Epilepsy cycle takes place on February 25 in Breaffy Sports Arena, Castlebar. Now in its third year, the growing event aims to help raise funds for Epilepsy Ireland’s support services and increase public awareness of the condition.
The event will be launched locally next month.
Speaking at the launch, Schmidt said: “The effort of all the organisers and volunteers is inspiring and this event proves the positive impact sports can have in supporting a charity. I would encourage everyone with an interest in epilepsy to register for the cycle – an effort which I’m sure will continue to increase in popularity well into the future.”
The cycle is organised by Brenda Quigg who had her first ever seizure seven years ago. “At first I ignored my epilepsy, hoping it would go away. But over the next few years the seizures began to grow in intensity, as did my work-related stress,” she explained.
The Castlebar native had so much passion for the cause of epilepsy she organised the inaugural cycle in 2015 in just three months.
“We managed to double the number of cyclists in the following year to over 450 and I’m hoping it grows again in 2017 as we’re focusing on participants from across the country.
“This cycle would not be possible if it wasn’t for all our wonderful sponsors who provide fantastic support. Most importantly, I’d like to thank Joe Schmidt for supporting the launch and all our wonderful volunteers – this effort really makes a significant difference to the lives of people with epilepsy across the country.”
Epilepsy Ireland CEO Peter Murphy said: “The dedication of Brenda and her team is inspiring. They are rapidly making Saddle Up For Epilepsy one of our most successful fundraising events, with all funds going towards STEPS, our epilepsy-self management programme for people with epilepsy and parents of children with epilepsy.
“This new flagship service has already been shown to make a huge difference to the lives of people living with epilepsy. Not only that, the event is instrumental in raising awareness and improving understanding of epilepsy, an often hidden, misunderstood and stigmatised condition.”
Epilepsy Ireland is the national organisation supporting and representing people with epilepsy, their families and carers. Established in 1966, the charity provides a wide range of support and information services, as well as training programmes for health professionals and young adults with epilepsy, while actively working to improve public understanding of epilepsy and funding high quality Irish research into the condition.
To register for the 2017 National Saddle Up For Epilepsy log on to www.saddleupforepilepsy.com