Leinster and Irish Rugby Star Ryan Baird Lines Out with Family Carers Ireland

Ryan Baird and his dog Mackenzie launch ‘Paws for a Cause’ Fundraising Challenge

Tuesday, 17^th May 2022: Leinster and Irish rugby star Ryan Baird has been announced as a new Ambassador for Family Carers Ireland and he is urging people all over Ireland to get active and challenge themselves to walk, jog or run a distance of 24 kms in 7 days – all while raising vital funds for the charity.

‘Paws for a Cause’ is a national fundraising drive which is taking place during National Carers Week 13 – 19^th June 2022. Ryan and Family Carers Ireland are asking people all over Ireland to walk or run 24k over 7 days with or without their furry friend in solidarity with Ireland’s 500,000 family carers and in recognition of the 24/7 nature of many caring roles.

All monies raised by ‘Paws for a Cause’ will go directly to help family carers in crisis, providing essential supports such as counselling, respite and emotional support as well as the purchase of practical support items including hoists, wheelchairs and in some particularly difficult cases, putting food on tables and oil in heating tanks.

Ryan Baird said “I’m delighted to support Family Carers Ireland – I have a great admiration for the work they do across the country. I have seen first-hand from my aunt and her family the dedication, commitment and sacrifice they make to take care of my cousin on a daily basis.

“This, for me, is a simple and fun challenge to show how easy it can be to raise vital funds for a great charity that does incredible work. I am appealing to everyone to get behind this great cause. Whether you have a dog or not, sign-up and participate, and support this amazing charity.”

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, welcomed Ryan’s support saying “With more families than ever relying on Family Carers Ireland for support, this fundraiser couldn’t come at a better time. We are seeing unprecedented levels of stress and financial worries piled on family carers.

“All of us at Family Carers Ireland are delighted to have an ambassador like Ryan who is willing to literally go the extra mile and help us raise much needed funds and awareness. We want to encourage everyone across Ireland to enjoy the benefits of exercise, while raising money and ultimately having a bit of fun!”

-ENDS-

For further information: Sarah Lawlor, MKC Communications, 086 1904125 or Siobhan Walsh, 086 102 4223.

Register for the event at www.familycarers.ie. Registration is just €10 and includes a free t-shirt. No dog? No problem! Join in anyway.

Family Carers Ireland is the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across the country who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental ill-health, or addiction.

It provides a range of services and supports for family carers through its Carer Support Centres nationwide and through its National Freephone Careline 1800 24 07 24.