Rugby star Baird lines out with Family Carers Ireland

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 24kms in seven days – all while raising vital funds for this "amazing charity".

‘Paws for a Cause’ is a national fundraising drive, which is taking place during National Carers Week, June 13-19. Ryan and Family Carers Ireland are asking people all over Ireland to walk or run 24k over seven 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 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, who will do the walk with his dog Mackenzie, said: “I have a great admiration for the work carers 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."

Brigid Finnegan, Cavan/Monaghan carer support manager with Family Carers Ireland, joined the appeal. “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."