Sheila's a shining light

Sheila’s a shining light

When it comes to community spirit in Ballinagh, Sheila Sorohan (right) is the woman everybody calls. And more often than not, she answers.

Living in Dillagh, just outside Ballinagh, Sheila has spent decades quietly volunteering across countless local causes - from Ballinagh Christmas Lights and school fundraisers to charity collections, tractor runs and a plethora of other community events.

“I do a bit of everything for everybody,” she laughs. “If somebody rings me, I’ll do my best to help out.”

A mother of six and grandmother to 14, Sheila says volunteering has always been about helping her community thrive. Over the years she has supported fundraising for St Christopher's Hospice, Alzheimer’s campaigns and Cuan Cancer Care, while also raising money through Father Ted-style comedy plays and mock weddings organised for local charities.

Just last weekend alone, Sheila spent the day fundraising for Alzheimer’s before heading to the Slieve Rossa Bar in Cavan Town that evening to support a fundraiser for Cuan Cancer Care.

She has also been heavily involved with Lacken School over the years and still remembers raising €950 in a single day during a campaign to help build a new playground in the 1990s.

“You have to do it,” she states simply. “Someone has to help, and I don’t mind doing it.”

Despite the countless hours she gives, Sheila never looks for praise or recognition.

“I don’t want acknowledgement for any of it,” she said. “I just do it because I want to help.”