€4.7m. expansion of Mayo Western Alzheimers' facility

Official opening of the Joe and Helen O Toole Respite House at Ballindine

The new wing of Marian House – The Joe and Helen O’Toole Respite Home - has been officially opened in Ballindine.

The ceremony was performed by Mary Lardner, on behalf of The Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust, and Late Late Show presenter Patrick Kielty.

The €4.7 million expansion was made possible by the support of donors and community partners, including a remarkable €2.6 million contribution by The Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust.

It marks a major milestone in Western Alzheimers’ mission to improve dementia care services in the west of Ireland.

The development includes the construction of thirteen new ensuite bedrooms, additional day and activity rooms, medical room, welcome atrium, increased kitchen and dining facilities and an enclosed courtyard.

The trust honours the legacy of Joe and Helen O’Toole, whose philanthropic endeavours continue to make a profound difference in the lives of others. Helen and Joe passed away in 2013 and 2019 respectively.

The purpose-built expansion will enhance communal resident and visitor areas and ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment for all.

“It’s a real privilege to be part of today’s opening and to see the meaningful impact that community and generosity can have. What has been achieved here goes far beyond bricks and mortar.

"It’s about dignity, care and connection. The dedication of Western Alzheimers and the legacy of Joe and Helen O’Toole are a powerful reminder of the difference people can make when they come together with purpose,” said Patrick Kielty.

Pat McHugh, chairperson, Western Alzheimers, expressed gratitude for the trust’s extraordinary donation, emphasising its transformative impact on the organisation’s ability to serve the community.

“Our mission at Western Alzheimers is to empower individuals living with dementia to remain at home and actively engaged in their communities.

"Apart from the residential respite services we provide in Ballindine, we also offer support and advisory services, in-home support, and day care services in counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

"Over 6,000 people live with dementia in the region and these figures are set to double over the next 20 years,” he said.

Mary Lardner, CEO of O’Toole’s SuperValu and trustee of the charitable trust, highlighted the deep commitment Joe and Helen showed to local causes throughout their lives, particularly those addressing the challenges of dementia.

“Joe and Helen recognised the role organisations like Western Alzheimers play in providing vital support to families affected by dementia.

"Their generous contribution to Marian House – The Joe and Helen O’Toole Respite Home underscores their enduring legacy of compassion and community service,” she said.

The expansion increases the organisation’s capacity to deliver essential services to individuals and their families.

CEO Pat Holmes thanked all who contributed to the project’s success, including community partners, healthcare professionals and the construction team.

“We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support we have received throughout this journey. We look forward to continuing our mission and serving our community with compassion and dedication,” said Pat.

“The new development increases capacity from 588 weeks of residential respite care to 980 weeks. The building also complies with the latest standards for residential care settings.

“Along with The Joe and Helen O’Toole Charitable Trust, I also acknowledge the support of the HSE in Community Healthcare West, including Mary Warde - Integrated Healthcare Area Manager (Mayo), Anne Cosgrove – Integrated Healthcare Area Manager (Galway & Roscommon), Des Mulligan - Head of Older People Services (CHO2) and Miriam McGuinness - Home Support Manager (CHO2).

"Additionally, I acknowledge the excellent care provided by Pam Dalton, Person in Charge, and all the staff in Marian House. A special mention to Paul Moody for all his guidance and support during the construction phase.”

The official opening ceremony marked the culmination of years of planning, collaboration and dedication.

The design team for the project was Taylor McCarney Architects, and Tuam-based construction company Loumoy carried out the contract.