THE best friend of Share a Dream founder Shay Kinsella, who tragically died from cancer, is taking on an epic charity challenge in his memory.
Garda Ken McDonald will this weekend haul a 30kg rowing machine up to the top of Ireland’s tallest mountain before completing a 10km row at its peak.
Shay, who was 79, was known as a “dream-maker” who helped thousands of children through his charity, which organised special days out, and treats.
Following a break-in at the charity’s premises in Limerick, Ken planned the challenge.
But following Shay’s passing, it has given him a renewed focus to take on Carrantouhill, outside Killarney in Co Kerry this Saturday/.
Despite the tragic news, Ken said he has Shay’s family’s blessing - and he has once again appealed for people to support him.
“My motivation is now at an all time high now. I’m definitely more committed now to doing the best I can. Shay was an eternal optimist and a very positive individual.
The last thing he would want for there to be any change of plan. The family are very excited. I was talking to John his son yesterday, and they will still come to Carrantouhill to see us off. It’s given them a lift,” he explained.
Paying tribute to his friend, Ken said: “He was man who was brimming with love for the work he did. He was passionate about it. He loved seeing the joy and the happiness that he
saw in the eyes of the children he helped. He just seemed to be energised by the reaction and the interaction he had with sick children. There was no holding back his joy when the kids were in Share a Dream. Something magical happened for him. He was a special type of person and anyone who came into contact with Shay were better for the interaction.”
Ken, who broke a rowing speed record last year, said he initially was moved to do the challenge after seeing the mini garda station he helped build at the Share a Dream centre in Plassey targetted by thieves.
Aiming to raise €25,000, he’s already up to almost €19,000 on the internet, with a further €2,000 coming from pledges made in person.
He’s already done one warm-up, dragging a 16kg weight up Carrauntoohil.
And in preparation for the main event, he has been training six days a week.
To donate, please visit https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/11382942_kenneth-mc-donald-s-page.html.
