Going the extra mile to support CAPS

The annual Ladies Mini Marathon over the June Bank holiday weekend is typically a lucrative fundraiser for the Cavan Autism Parents Support (CAPS) group. Like so many other events, restrictions around preventing the spread of Coronavirus meant the cancellation of last Monday’s race.

But Bernie Nelson, CAPS chairperson, didn’t let that deter her and, instead, organised an alternative event, resulting in one of the best years yet for CAPS in terms of funds generated.

This would have been Bernie’s 19th year in succession to take part in the marathon for CAPS, a group that supports children and adults with autism and their families in County Cavan and surrounding areas. Two weeks ago the Crosserlough woman decided to do her 10km from her own home, maintaining social distance, and appealed to others to join in, staying within a 5km radius of their own homes at all times.

The outcome? Over 50 people took part from Cavan to Monaghan, Meath, Westmeath, Donegal, Dublin and even as far as Perth (Australia). Bernie set up an iDonate page and was overwhelmed by the “phenomenal support” it received.

She had set a target of €500 for CAPs and, by 2pm on Sunday, May 31, at the start of her walk, it had already topped €5,000, thanks to the generosity of so many people.

At the time of going to print, it had almost reached €7,000.

Bernie thanked all of those who participated especially the “wonderful” carers within CAPS families. “They the are so giving with their time to support us and work with our members when we have activities going,” she said.

Bernie is hopeful that CAPS will soon be able to link in with all its members when COVID-19 restrictions ease further and “as soon as it is safe to do so”.

She concludes: “Following the great success of this event it will enable us to do so much when the time comes!”

Those who still wish to donate can do so up until the end of June.