Paul McGrath, Steven Hunt and Jamie Codd© Photo Healy Racing
Some of Ireland's greatest Sporting Stars will be in attendance at Wexford Races this Friday evening to support the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Ireland Fundraiser.
Speaking at the launch of the fundraising race night earlier this month at Paul Nolan's stables was ABI Ireland Ambassador and former Ireland Soccer legend Paul McGrath, he said: “I think the most frightening thing is that a brain injury can happen to anyone, anytime and anywhere. It can happen anyhow, even a simple trip or fall. If I can help raise awareness of that simple, yet powerful message, to educate people about brain injury, and the work of ABI Ireland I am delighted to do so”.
Paul McGrath was joined at the launch by a number of sporting representatives including fellow ambassador and former jockey Matt O’ Connor, along with Jockeys Davy Russell, Jamie Codd and Barry O’Neill, representing Irish boxing were Adam Nolan and Billy Walsh, with soccer star Steven Hunt popping in before training with the Wexford hurlers.
Speaking at the launch about the event was Karen O’ Boyle, Communications Manager of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, she said: “Young males age 18-35 are a high risk category when it comes to brain injury so to have the support of all the different sports personalities, whom this demographic look up to, to come out and support our event is just powerful, and an honour to have such support at the launch of the Race night in aid of ABI Ireland. The funds raised at this event will go towards developing our ABI service here in Co Wexford, to allow us continue making a difference in the lives of those living with a brain injury, and their families”.
The race night in aid of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland takes place on Friday 25th July at the Wexford Racecourse with a special ABI Ireland beneficiary race along with an auction, raffle, face painting, refreshments and music will follow at the Ivy Bar. There is no admin fee for those with an ABI Ireland ticket, with all those attending asked to support the beneficiary race and activities inside to raise much needed funds. For more information and to book a ticket to this summer evening event call former Amateur rider Lillian Doyle on 0872568997 or Tracey on 087 662 9916. For more information on Acquired Brain Injury Ireland see www.abiireland.ie
Approximately 13,000 people suffer from a head injury in Ireland each year and face a dramatically altered life thereafter. People with acquired brain injury (ABI) progress at different rates, and may need to access services at different points in time as their needs change. Within each stage of rehabilitation a range of different service providers is involved, which must be coordinated. Once back in the community the emphasis is on more extended activities of daily living, integration, and return to work or education. Interventions focus on enhanced participation, improved quality of life, psychological adjustment and carer stress. Acquired Brain Injury Ireland is filling a vital service gap, in collaboration with statutory bodies.
