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The Magazine of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind www.guidedogs.ie
Roy ‘keen’ on our SHADES Campaign
RTÉ Radio 1’s Ronan Collins launches our Cards & Calendar
Co. Leitrim woman is first guide dog wheelchair user
Autumn / Winter 2010
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Page 4-5
Page 11
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Our Christmas Cards
& 2011 Calendar
Support Irish Guide Dogs for
the Blind by purchasing our
Christmas Cards and 2011
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beautiful photographs taken
by award winning
photographer, John Ryan.
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Editor's Message
Chief Executive’s Message
Welcome to our Autumn / Winter issue of Guidelines. So far,
2010 has felt a bit like a rollercoaster ride here at Irish Guide
Dogs for the Blind. The months have flown by at breakneck
speed and the word ‘busy’ seems to have taken on a whole
new meaning. We’ve many highlights to share with you in this
issue. The first is that we had the privilege of matching Isolde
Carmody with guide dog Izac who is our first guide dog trained
to work with a client using a wheelchair. This was an exciting
new milestone for us and the reward has been seeing Izac help
Isolde enjoy greater freedom and mobility. Spring got off to a
great start as we hosted our highest number of clients at the
same time during the month of March and our training calendar
has been filled to the brim since.
Dear Reader
In April / May, our SHADES campaign once again took centre
stage with Roy Keane and our new sponsor, SuperValu, lending
their support. Two new staff members joined our Fundraising
Team around this time and more can be read about them and
some of our fundraising volunteers on pages 18 - 19. There are
a number of client profiles as well as an update on our events
during this period. In June, we launched our new website and are
very excited about its future potential to engage more people.
The launch of our exciting 2011 Calendar and Christmas Cards
was also a highlight and these are now ready for purchase
through our volunteers or our website.
3
Thank you for taking the time to read our Guidelines magazine
and for your interest in Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB).
Through these pages you will find inspirational features on
our service users and their families as well as the wonderful
achievements of our many volunteers.
March was an exciting month for staff and clients at Irish
Guide Dogs for the Blind. Thanks to our newly redeveloped
Training Centre, we were able to host three different classes at
the same time. It was a significant milestone for us as we are
now able to reap the benefits of our newly enlarged facility.
We are very pleased to have such a high number of people
living and training with us and to be able to provide them with
a high level of comfort and lots of space.
Right now we are all focused on our vision of extending
the number of people to whom we provide services.
This is against the background of some of the most difficult
economic conditions in recent history and the daily pressures
of operating on a reduced income. In the past six months
we have had redundancies, pay reductions and more. I am
pleased to thank our staff for their co-operation and loyalty.
Together with our volunteers, they are the key to our future
growth and development.
Best wishes for the upcoming festive season!
Cards
Delia Webster
Editor
Recommended Donation €6
Our front cover image was taken at the launch of our
Christmas Cards and 2011 Calendar in Dublin. Featured
with RTÉ Radio 1 Presenter Ronan Collins and puppy
in training, Hogan, is John Redmond, ESB Company
Secretary, who hosted the event.
Calendar
Recommended Donation €8
Read more about the launch on Page 11.
Go to www.guidedogs.ie to
purchase them online or
alternatively,
call 1850 506 300
to place an order.
Contents
Page 4 - 5 Page 6 Page 7 - 12 Page 13 Page 14 - 15
Page 16 - 18 Page 18- 19
Page 20 - 21
Page 22
Page 23 - 25 Page 26 - 27 SHADES Campaign 2010
Message from the Chair
News Bytes
Pat and Quandro’s zest for life
Isolde Carmody’s new lease on life
Training Round-up
Inspirational Fundraising
Our Breeding Programme
Jenny O’Connell on living her dream
Community News
Youthlines
We are committed to co-operating with other organisations
who support people who are blind or vision impaired and also
families of children with autism. As part of our redeveloped
National Headquarters, we have facilitated St. Joseph’s Centre
for the Vision Impaired in opening their first facility outside
Dublin. This Early Intervention Centre will provide much
needed support for children who are blind and vision impaired,
eliminating the requirement to travel to Dublin for services
and support. Our co-operation with St Joseph’s is an example
of the type of collaboration sought by statutory agencies and
represents our commitment to delivering value for money whether it be public or private.
Thank you for your support!
Padraig Mallon
Guidelines Magazine
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
National Headquarters and Training Centre
Model Farm Road, Cork, Ireland
Tel 1850 506 300 / 021 487 8200
[email protected]
www.guidedogs.ie
Editor: Delia Webster
Contributor:Communications Student Tara Lambe
Graphic Design: Woodland Print & Design
Printed by: Woodland Print & Design 021 497 6210
4
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
5
Brookes SuperValu Youghal
go all out for SHADES
Roy ‘keen’ on SHADES
Our SHADES Fundraising Campaign took place this
year from 3rd-9th May. SHADES is one of our most
important fundraising campaigns of the year. It was
launched on the 29th of April at the Mount Herbert
Hotel in Dublin by Ipswich Town Manager and Irish
football legend, Roy Keane, who was the face of the
campaign again this year. This is the eighth year that
Roy has been involved and we greatly appreciate his
dedication.
The launch in Dublin
The launch campaign kicked off with a press conference hosted by
Roy Keane, our Chief Executive Padraig Mallon and Ciaran Levis,
Sales Director of our sponsor SuperValu. The press conference
was followed by a ‘meet and greet’ at which our Chair, Noel
O’Regan, then welcomed SuperValu Managers to meet with Roy,
followed by staff, volunteers and clients.
Speaking at the launch, Roy said; “I’m very happy to continue my
support for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind SuperValu SHADES
2010 Campaign. The positive impact that a guide or assistance
dog can have on an individual or a family is inspiring. I admire
the tremendous, selfless effort put in by their staff, volunteers
and partners in making a difference to others. It gives me great
pleasure to be able to support the team by lending a hand and
I’d encourage the public to do the same for this worthy cause.”
Roy kindly met and took photographs with our employees,
volunteers and clients in attendance, much to their delight.
www.guidedogs.ie
Our CEO, Padraig Mallon, reinforced how important the
SHADES campaign is and how fortunate we are to have
such strong support: “Our SHADES campaign is one of the
highlights of our annual fundraising calendar. It makes a significant
contribution to our income each year. Raising funds is a challenge
at present but the winning combination of Roy Keane and
SuperValu is certain to keep our campaign in the spotlight.’’
SHADES fundraising activities took place all over the country: in
schools, in doctor and veterinary surgeries, restaurants, shopping
centres and SuperValu stores, amongst many others.
nAbove: Two of our puppies in training getting cosy in the Sam
Maguire Cup at the SuperValu Retailers Conference when SuperValu
was announced as the new sponsor of SHADES.
rBelow: Pictured here are Puppy Walker Heather Harris with her
husband Ger and their daughters Ciara (left) and Georgia (right), with
Roy Keane and puppy in training Kyle.
Brookes SuperValu in
Youghal was one of
many SuperValu stores
nationwide that put in a
great effort to fundraise for
our SHADES Campaign,
even organising the Senior
Cork Hurling Team to
launch the campaign for
their store. With the Irish nAbove: Fundraising Dog York
Guide Dogs for the Blind wearing his Shades.
(IGDB) Youghal Branch on
board, they raised €1,600.
Ken Brookes, owner of SuperValu in Youghal, commented
on what a pleasure it was to be involved in the campaign
and the great support IGDB enjoys in Youghal. “You can
really sense the awareness and support amongst our staff
and customers for the cause. It was all down to our staff
that put in the extra effort to make the campaign a success,
especially Angeline Murphy (SuperValu Sales Assistant) and
Ashling Walsh (IGDB Youghal Branch). We look forward
to being involved in an event like this again in the future.”
Check our Community News (pg. 24) for more SHADES
success stories!
SHADES welcomes
SuperValu was announced as the new sponsor of SHADES at their
Retailer’s Conference held in Killarney on the 19th of April. We are
delighted to have the support of such a large local organisation.
Ciaran Levis, Sales Director of SuperValu said, “With 192
SuperValu stores spread across the country, we hope to reach
many supporters. Our retail partners see first hand the fantastic
work that Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind do out in the community.
SuperValu can really help to make a profound difference to many
people’s lives.’’
nMain photo: Roy celebrates our SHADES Campaign with school
children John Mulcahy, Marcus Boggan, Brian Cuddy, Fiona McNulty from
St. Mary’s National School, Donnybrook, and Anna McDonagh, Anna
Twomey and Orlaith O’Donnell from Teresian School, Donnybrook, Dublin.
fBottom left (Adjacent page): The press can’t get enough of
Roy and our puppy in training.
nAbove: Seated here (from left to right) are Mary O’Donoghue
(SuperValu), Seamus Kelly with Ike, Mary O’Farrell with Grace, Ger
Kenneally with York and Aisling Walsh. Standing (from left to right) are
Edel O’Connell, Angeline Murphy, Luke O’Farrell (Cork Senior Hurling
Team), Stephen O’Sullivan (SuperValu Youghal Manager), members
of Cork Senior Hurling Team Paudie O’Sullivan with Umi, Aidan
Ryan, Martin Walsh (Logistics Manager), and Kieran Murphy (Cork
Captain), with SuperValu staff Adam Hennessy, Brendan O’Sullivan,
and Melanie Clohessy.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
6
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Vision Week
Message from the Chair
At the July Board meeting, the Board members proposed that I should remain as Chair of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB)
for the coming year. I greatly appreciate their vote of confidence. I will continue as Chair knowing that there are some very serious
challenges confronting us in the coming year. The day-to-day income of the organisation remains a matter of grave concern. This
trend became apparent last year. After much reflection, the Board introduced some structural re-organisation to address these issues
which included cuts in administration, salaries and redundancies. Only time will determine whether these changes will have brought
about the desired results. Current indications however are that we are still facing a difficult period. Only the combined and renewed
efforts of all our readers will deliver our vision of a future where visually impaired, blind and disabled people achieve independence
and dignity through our world-class guide dog, assistance dog and ancillary services.
Despite the current financial situation, we will energetically pursue the vision of the founders and we remain determined to provide
the highest quality of services in partnership with our clients. While valuing clients, volunteers and each other, planning for the future
must be central to our current mission. We are delighted that the extension of the Model Farm Road complex is now complete.
Our infrastructure provides us with the potential to double our output of dogs and services. The foresight of those directing the
organisation over the last number of years means that the considerable building cost of circa €5 million is already covered. We are
currently in the process of organising the official opening of the new premises and will communicate with you as soon as the opening
date has been agreed.
Over the last year, we were sad to lose the services of Tom Aplin, Arthur O’Reilly, Charlie Daly and Ben Kenny from the Board.
Their individual and combined contribution has been far too great to do justice to them in these few lines and in a future issue of
this publication, we will include the story of their immense contribution to the organisation. We had a modest but very enjoyable
thank-you lunch with the retired members and presented them with a small memento of their time on the Board. However, we are
delighted to welcome to the Board Professor Ivan Perry, Paul Horan and Catherine O’Callaghan. They have been invited to join us
because of the range of skills they bring to support the Board.
We remain committed to achieving a very high level of Governance and, at our recent AGM, announced our intention to comply
with directives the Government are providing for all Not for Profit Organisations. This new policy now adopted by IGDB is known
as the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), which will govern our financial management practices. This will demand that
we, like all charities, continue to tighten up the amount of monies spent in administration et cetera to insure that we meet the
substantive needs of our clients. We are conscious that some of the changes caused considerable difficulty to our staff and our
Branches. However, we have put in place a restructured Fundraising Team in the belief that we will provide the required service to our
clients as well as adequate support for our Branches. I would like to reiterate that the Board is completely committed to the future
development of our Branch network.
www.guidedogs.ie
During Vision Week, Sight Village took place in Cork and Dublin.
Volunteers from IGDB went along to the event to man the stand and
also helped out as sighted guides. Those who attended reported an
impressive amount of new technologies and confirmed that it was also
a good opportunity to meet many service providers and organisations
involved in the same line of work as well as potential new clients.
Pictured here from left to right are some of our staff who manned
stand at the event: Deirdre Moriarty (Client Services Manager), Dave
Kenneally (Guide Dog Trainer), PJ Hogan (Training Team Leader) and
Nathalie Wood (Guide Dog Mobility Instructor).
To find out more about Vision Week and the Making A Difference
Awards, visit www.visionweek.ie.
Athlone Branch visits IGDB
Branch members of the Athlone Branch visited our National
Headquarters and Training Centre on a beautiful sunny day in May.
The members were given a tour of the redeveloped facility which
included viewing the Skills Training Zone and a dog training
demonstration. The members also enjoyed lunch and did
some shopping in our Fundraising Shop! Michael Duffy, Branch
Chair of Athlone Branch, reported the visit was thoroughly
enjoyed by all who felt inspired afresh on seeing just what goes into training
guide and assistance dogs.
The World is Your Runway Charity Fashion Show
Last, but by no means least, we remain especially grateful to my
fellow Board members, all our staff, our many dedicated Puppy
Walkers, all other volunteers who care for our dogs, the Branch
members and supporters. Without the tireless efforts of the many
people involved, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind would not be the
remarkable organisation it is today. Noel O’Regan
Vision Week took place from the 9th-15th May and was organised
by the Vision Impaired Service Providers Alliance (VISPA). This
alliance includes Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGBD), Fighting
Blindness, The National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) and
St. Joseph’s Centre for the Visually Impaired.
fRight: IGDB staff members, Athlone Branch members and volunteer
supporters of the Athlone Branch.
Our objectives are that, in the coming years, we will exploit the
potential of our new infrastructure in Model Farm Road. We will
increase our output of dogs to both blind and autistic clients. We
will continue to provide the other ancillary and support services,
adding to the independence that our users should enjoy. Noel O’Regan
This year was a year of firsts for Vision Week. Sight Village came
to Ireland for the first time. This is the world’s largest exhibition
showcasing technology, support and services for people who are blind
or vision impaired. Specsavers was also announced as the sponsor of
Vision Week and it’s the first year of the Making a Difference Award.
In March, we trained our highest number of clients at the same time in our refurbished
premises. Pictured here are our guide and assistance dog clients that trained with us
during March. Back row from left to right are: Natalie Caicedo (Mobility Instructor), T.J.
Hearne with Keeva, Pat Bourke with Major, Theresa Roche with Selwyn, Mary Cahill with
Obi, Patricia Clarke with Oma, Simon Osburne (Mobility Instructor), Ann Marie Power
with Riva, Liam Lynch with Reggie, Maeve McCluskey (Kennel Assistant), Martin Falvey
(Assistance Dog Instructor).
Aoibhe Devlin from Dublin organised ‘The World is Your Runway’ fashion show in aid of Irish
Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGBD) for the second year running. The show took place in the Bracken
Court Hotel, Balbriggan on the 22nd of April. Tom O’Neill of the Balbriggan / North County
Dublin Branch, has high praise for Aoibhe and her family. Aoibhe is the third generation of her
family to fundraise for us; her grandfather Hugh Devlin was a volunteer and Aoibhe’s dad, Hugh,
also lent his support. He explained how Aoibhe came up with the idea of a fashion show last year,
when she was fundraising for a 10,000ft skydive in aid of IGDB. Aoibhe describes herself as a keen
‘fashionista.’ Stores featured in the show included The Fashion Hall Balbriggan, New Look, A-wear,
MWST Suitwear Balbriggan, Pepe Jeans and many more. Top Irish dress designer Claire Garvey’s
fashions were also featured. Aoibhe was also chosen as Miss Earth Balbriggan - one of six finalists
to represent Ireland in the Blackpool UK competition.
Pictured here are two of the models for the show Rebecca Mc Gilloway and Megan Mc Auley,
both from Skerries with Guide Dog Sarge, who is owned by Tom O Neill, former Chairman of the
Balbriggan / North County Dublin Branch.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
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8
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Mizen2Malin Cycle
The good spell of summer weather was
appreciated and enjoyed by the 63 cyclists
who took part in the Mizen2Malin cycle
in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
(IGBD) in May. This year was the tenth
anniversary of the cycle, which, through
the years, has raised significant funds and
really helped raise our profile. The cycle
started in Mizen in West Cork and it
took seven days for the cyclists to cover
the length of the country and arrive in
Malin on Saturday, 29th of May.The cycle
took place in Bantry and went through
Killarney, Tralee, Kilkee, Galway, Castlebar,
Sligo, Letterkenny and on to Malin Head,
covering approximately 735km. The
cyclists had a gruelling challenge ahead
of them, cycling up to 105km per day. Six
visually impaired participants also joined
the event on tandem cycles.
Eamonn Linanne, who organised the
fundraiser for the first time in 2001,
reported his delight that it went so well
this year. “The event continues to gain
momentum; it’s great to see it grow. The
participants really got on well together;
they were also so enthusiastic, up and
out every morning on time to start the
day’s cycle!”
Twenty new participants joined the cycle
this year. We spoke to Paul Kavanagh,
who took part in the event for the
Tom O’Neill retires as Balbriggan Branch Chairman
One of our leading fundraisers, Tom O’Neill,
recently stepped down as Chairman of the
Branch he founded in Balbriggan some 25
years ago. Tom chose the occasion of the
Balbriggan Branch AGM in June to inform his
fellow volunteers that while he would still be
around to lend a hand, he was stepping down.
first time. Paul said, “It was a tough but
exhilarating experience. I don’t do much
cycling and only started training about a
month before, so I wasn’t very prepared.
But, I’ll know how much training to do
next year and I’ll enjoy it even more
then.”
The 80 volunteers present were delighted
with the results of their efforts in 2009. They
raised €90,000 in North County Dublin and
beyond. Paddy Delaney, IGDB Commercial
Manager and Padraig Mallon, IGDB Chief
Executive attended the meeting. Padraig
spoke of the enormous contribution made
by Tom and his wife Breege, both guide dog
Most of the participants started training
in January and had five months training
under their belts. The highlight of the
trip for Paul was the stunning scenery,
especially the Kerry Mountains and the
sunny mornings and evenings. The group
was extremely lucky with the weather
and enjoyed lots of sun on the way.
Paul admits that the last push to
Malin town was the hardest: “My right
hamstring gave up and I was pedalling
with one leg for the last 50 meters,
but I had to keep going. I even got a
bit emotional at the end. I don’t know
whether it was my body relieved to be
finished, but it is hard to describe the
feeling when we were met by crowds
of people shouting their support and
giving us water. It felt like a great thing
to achieve.”
nAbove: Pictured here are Joe Davis, Dave Fitzgerald
and Rob Ducie.
rBelow: Eamon Linanne with fundraising dog Coco
Chanel (owned by Marie McGettigan, Donegal Branch
Chairperson).
Marie McGettigan and volunteers from
the IGDB Donegal Branch ensured the
cyclists were met by a great reception
crossing the finish line.
Cork County Charity
Cricket Sixes Tournament
In July this year, IGDB was chosen as the recipient charity for the Cork
County Cricket Sixes Tournament held at the Mardyke in Cork. Organised
by William John Bradley and Shay Livingstone from the Cork County
Cricket Club, this year’s event included a BBQ and music entertainment
making it a fun event for participants and their supporting families. The event
follows on from last year’s hugely successful tournament and has drawn
teams from across the country.
jLeft: Former Miss Cork, Caroline Crowley, with ‘Tayto’ at the launch of the
Country Cricket Club Sixes and (from left to right) William Bradley (Organiser),
Aimee Weldon, Shay Livingstone (Club PRO), Robert Duggan (Club Captain), Aideen
O’Donoghue, Gerard Ahern (Club President) and Padraig Mallon (IGDB CEO).
www.guidedogs.ie
owners. He praised their commitment and
hard work and how they had managed to
unite a whole community in support of IGDB.
Pictured from left to right are Padraig
Mallon (IGDB CEO), Tom O’Neill (Chairman
of Balbriggan IGDB) and his wife Breege
O’Neill who were presented with a sculpture
(representing ‘one man and his dog’) and a
bouquet of flowers as an acknowledgement of
special thanks.
Services Information Day
We were delighted to host over 70 blind and vision impaired
persons and family members at our Services Information Day
held at our National Headquarters and Training Centre in
June. Our Client Services Team provided demonstrations on
our Guide Dog Programme, our Long Cane Training as well
as Independent Living Skills Programme throughout the day. A
number of visitors were potential new clients coming to find out
more about our services.
Pictured is Cliodhna Ní Loaghaire & Elaine Walsh who welcomed our
visitors on the day. Pictured alongside is Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
Simon Osburne with PJ Hogan (Training Team Leader) demonstrating
how a guide dog operates as a mobility aid to a crowd of guests.
Our New Website
We were pleased to launch our new website on 18th of June.
We have added lots of new features such as a Blog where you
can find updates from our Kennels, tips on looking after your
dogs, application forms for our services, and a new and improved
News and Events sections so you can keep up to date!
We have also recently launched our Facebook page.
You can sign up to our newsletter, donate online
and shop at our online store or connect with us
on Facebook.
Check it out on www.guidedogs.ie
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
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GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Noel Glynn makes music for guide dogs
Noel Glynn is a talented musician and singer with a growing fan base in
the West of Ireland and across the country. Noel is vision impaired and
has had training and support from Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB).
Noel decided late last year to put his talent to work in raising
funds for IGDB. He recorded a CD, ‘From the Heart’ and over the
following months sold the CD at his numerous gigs in the West
of Ireland and beyond. Noel raised a total of €6,000 and was
delighted to present a cheque to our Chief Executive, Padraig
Mallon at a recent show in Ballinaroe, Co. Clare in June this year.
Speaking on the night Noel said, “Music and song have brought me
great comfort over the years and it’s easy to do something I love
for a charity I greatly value. I’d like to extend my sincerest thanks to
members of the public, especially in West Ireland, for their support.
It’s their generosity that has enabled me to contribute towards the
provision of services for people who, like me, are living with sight loss.”
nAbove: From left to right are Noel Glynn and Padraig Mallon (IGDB CEO).
For more information or to purchase a copy of Noel Glynn’s CD ‘From the Heart’, e-mail Noel on [email protected]
or call him on 087 696 0233.
There’s no blocking
the Belvedere Boys
In June this year, forty teenage students from Belvedere College in
Dublin took the ‘bull by the horns’ and walked almost 250 kilometers
to fundraise for us. Since 1986, pulling the 6 foot tall block from
Dublin to Galway has become an annual tradition for the students
who are not afraid to go the distance for charity. Their seven day
journey began in Clondalkin and concluded with a reception at the
Galway Mayor’s Office on Sunday 27th of June. And in spite of it
being the last leg of their journey, the lads were undeterred, rising
at 2am on their final Sunday morning to walk from Loughrea to
Galway in time for the Mayoral reception.
fRight: Belvedere Boys Block Pull making their way to Galway.
Hoofing it at the Dublin Horse Show
There was no horsing around at this year’s
Dublin Horse Show in August as exhibitors
came out in full force to catch the eye of
attending visitors. With the help of our
volunteers, we seized the opportunity to do
some fundraising at this world renowned
event. Thousands of people attended over the
five day period, attracted by the prestigious
horse jumping competitions and exhibitions.
www.guidedogs.ie
We raised approximately €6,500 and were
able to showcase our services, introducing
some of working guide and assistance dogs to
the public.
Pictured here is Guide Dog Owner, Patrick
Costigan with his guide dog, Quandro and our
Puppy Walking Supervisor for Dublin North,
Suzi Walsh.
IGDB enjoys Abtran’s active support
We’re very pleased that business process outsourcer, Abtran
Limited, have come on board as one of our corporate partners.
Through their staff-run Charity Club, they have taken to lending
a hand both in volunteering and fundraising. In March this year,
a group of Abtran employees spent their Saturday volunteering
at our National Headquarters and Training Centre, doing tasks
such as painting, gardening, kennel cleaning and dog grooming.
In May, they supported our SHADES campaign by offering their
expertise and assistance with behind-the-scenes administration. In June,
we were lucky enough to receive four printers as a donation and finally,
on 28th of August, approximately 60 Abtran employees took to the
cliffs in the Gap of Dunloe to complete a fundraising abseil on our behalf.
Abtran’s Charity Club aims to raise some €25,000 and the abseiling
event kick-started their efforts. Some of our staff also took part and
are seen here with Abtran’s MD, Michael Fitzgerald, who described
the abseil as follows: “It was a fantastic day. The excitement, adrenaline
and camaraderie amongst everyone involved was inspiring and
everyone pulled together in support of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.”
Seen here are IGDB staff participants, Catherine Gallagher, Julie
Simpson, Ian Freyne and Aileen Foy with Michael up front and centre.
More power to
the puppies
Christmas Cards and Calendar Launch
ESB’s Dublin Head Office was charged with puppy-power at the
launch of our Christmas Cards and 2011 Calendar in early September.
RTÉ Radio 1 presenter, Ronan Collins, once again unveiled the stylish
collection featuring photographs taken by award winning photographer
and volunteer Puppy Walker, John Ryan, in the presence of the our
volunteers and staff.
The launch was planned in conjunction with our sponsor, ESB, with
whom we have a three year partnership. ESB Company Secretary, John
Redmond, said at the event, “We are pleased to be able to lend a hand
to an organisation that helps to change people’s lives so significantly.”
Our partnership began in 2009 when ESB
committed to providing funding towards
the training of guide dogs for people who
are blind or vision impaired and assistance
dogs for families of children with autism.
The value of the sponsorship results in the
breeding, training and care of six qualified
dogs over the three year period.
Our 2011 Calendar includes stylish
photographs of some of puppies and dogs
in training as well as a few of our qualified
guide and assistance dogs.The Calendar also includes some quotes by
our staff, volunteers, and clients associated with the dogs featured.Their
words express the benefit of the organisation’s work and life-changing
value of a guide or assistance dog.
A similar launch event was also due to take place in Cork at the time
of Guidelines going to print. You can purchase our Christmas Cards,
Calendars or other gifts from our online store at www.guidedogs.ie
or call 1850 506 300 to place an order. Our volunteers will also be
selling our products during the festive season at shopping centres
around the country.
nAbove: On the couch with Ronan is Olwen, one of our puppies in training
featured in our 2011 Calendar.
jLeft: Goldendoodle pup Hogan is seen here showering Ronan is
affectionate ‘licks’.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
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12
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Assistance Dog Programme in the spotlight
Profile - Patrick Costigan
CPLA Fundraising Lunch
Pat and
Quandro’s
zest for life
jTop left: Seen here is President of the CPLA,Terence O’Keeffe along with
Fiona Whooley and her Assistance Dog Clive (left) and Rosemary Smyth with
her Guide Dog Clint, who are Goldendoodle brothers.
rBottom left: Proud Goldendoodle owners, Rosemary & Fiona.
Jacqui’s ‘round the world’
support for Assistance Dogs
In early September, the Corporate & Public Lawyers Association
(CPLA) held its fourth annual fundraising lunch in aid of Irish Guide
Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) at the Mansion House in Dublin. This
year, our guest speaker was Disability Consultant and recent crew
member of Ireland’s entrant in the Clipper Round the World Yacht
Race, Jacqui Browne. She along with her fellow Cork crew members
raised funds during the race in support of IGDB’s Assistance Dog
Programme for families of children with autism.
As the chosen independent evaluator of the Assistance Dog
Programme since its initial launch in 2004, Jacqui has come to
understand the real difference an assistance dog can make to
not only a child with autism but also to their entire family. Her
presentation at the event highlighted not only her exciting sailing
experience but also why she and her crew felt compelled to
support IGDB’s Assistance Dog Programme.
She highlighted some of the benefits noted by parents on the
programme, such as: reduced stress levels for the autistic child and
their family, improved communication and social skills, a greater
aptitude towards learning and an improved freedom as families
were able to enjoy going out to public places together more
readily. The CPLA have raised over €100,000 for the charity to
date.
www.guidedogs.ie
As a sailing enthusiast, taking part in the Clipper Round the
World Yacht Race ‘09/’10 was a dream come true for Jacqui
Browne. Once signed up and connected with her fellow Cork
Clipper crew members, Jacqui took her participation one step
further. With little persuasion, Jacqui enlisted the Crew to
join her in raising much needed funds for our Assistance Dog
Programme for families of children with autism through the event.
Jacqui’s passion for the Assistance Dog Programme stems from
her in-depth understanding of its benefits. Jacqui says, “Having
seen first hand the incredible difference an assistance dog
can make to a family and a child with autism, supporting the
programme was an easy choice.”
Jacqui spent approximately 7 months at sea, completed 12 of
the 14 races and covered some 18,500 nautical miles during this
time. The journey which started in September 2009 concluded
on 17 July 2010 with the Spirit of Australia taking home the
winning trophy. The Clipper Fleet came to Ireland in July for
a festival in Kinsale and Cork. Jacqui joined some staff and
volunteers of a demonstration on Albert’s Quay in Cork, just
before setting off for the final two legs of the journey. The Cork
Clipper Crew raised over €6,000 towards our Programme and
helped to raise the profile of the Assistance Dog Programme
during their journey.
nAbove: Pictured are (left to right): Simon Osburne (Mobility Instructor)
and Veco, David Kenneally (Mobility Instructor) and Francine, Susan Turtle
(Mobility Instructor) and Ewan, Liam Hurley (Volunteer) and Toffee, Alison
Flack (Rochestown Branch Member) and Dougal,Valerie Deane (Volunteer
Puppy Walker) and Squire, and Jacqui with puppy in training,Vance.
13
Nearly two years on from being matched with his
guide dog Quandro, Patrick Costigan is now very
involved with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGBD).
He is an active volunteer who describes himself as
a ‘Conscript.’ He became an Association Member in
April 2009. Here Patrick shares his story.
In 2003, Patrick had a mechanical valve put into his heart to correct
a birth abnormality. Two years later, he was rushed to hospital with
what initially presented as migraine-like symptoms. It turned out
another abnormal congenital vessel in his brain had ruptured and
bled. He had to have a life saving operation at Beaumount Hospital.
The bleed was caught just in time: Patrick’s doctor stressed how
lucky he had been. However, the haemorrhage damaged a part of nAbove: This lovely photograph of Patrick and Quandro was taken by none
his brain that resulted in his field of vision being reduced to 50% other than John Ryan, the award winning Photographer and Volunteer Puppy
in both eyes.
Walker who took the photographs featured in our newly launched 2011
Calendar & Christmas Cards.
Two years later Patrick’s heart became infected and he suffered a
thrombotic stroke causing further damage leaving him with partial was overwhelmed when he found out he was entitled to receive
sight and registered as legally blind. He then had his mechanical a dog and couldn’t have imagined how his life would change.
heart valve replaced with a biological one.
At IGDB we match the ability and characteristics of our guide
He describes the experience as a “horrendous shock, but I still felt dogs with the lifestyle of our clients, and Patrick says that he and
very lucky to be alive”. He admits that like many people, he had Quandro are a perfect match. He describes Quandro as very fast,
pre-conceived ideas of what blindness might be like. As a Clinical confident and competent. They have never been separated since
Electron Microscopist in University College Dublin, his work they were matched in Cork. He says, “He gives me confidence.
involved using an electron microscope in a darkened room for Now I have no fear, I go everywhere, I can do anything.”
hours a day, constantly working with images, and he remembers
appreciating his ability to see. However, when he was recovering The positive experience Patrick has had with IGDB and Quandro
in hospital, there were many others who had suffered much more. has inspired and motivated him to get involved as much as he can.
He believes he is very fortunate and has a healthy attitude to his He takes part in fundraising; doing collections, selling calendars
new circumstances. He hopes that his attitude has the potential to and cards, and visiting schools and other organisations giving
educational talks. He is a confident public speaker due to his
be infectious.
experience of speaking at academic conferences in his previous
Patrick learned to use a long cane to help his mobility but felt career. After retiring from UCD, Patrick is still thinking about what
that it sometimes had a negative effect on his interaction with to do next.
others. When Patrick met people while using his cane, he instantly
felt that it made some people feel awkward. With Quandro at He feels the answer is in the people he meets through the work
his side, he loves the fact that people react differently and his he does for IGDB. “IGDB gave me back my life, and I am totally
committed to giving something back. I am always inspired when
blindness is of lesser importance to their interest in his dog.
I see people who are blind or vision impared push the limits of
Patrick wasn’t actually aware that he was eligible for a guide dog, what they can do. I really hope to do the same - to do something
as even though he is legally blind, he does have partial sight. He positive.”
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
14
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
15
Profile - Isolde Carmody
Isolde’s new lease on life
jLeft: Pictured are the team that were involved in training Izac. From
left to right (back row) are Rhea Eswer (Guide Dog Mobility Instructor),
Nadine Ruff (Guide Dog Trainer), Jayne Husband (Guide Dog Mobility
Instructor). Left to right (front row) Janice Blake (Dogs for the Disabled
UK), with Suzanne Mahony (Guide Dog Trainer) and Izac.
I began to use a wheelchair two years ago. My IGDB trainer, PJ
Hogan, came up to Carrick to help us adapt to this new means
of mobility. Following on from this, we began discussions about
training a dog specifically for working with the wheelchair, and
we explored how a dog could give other kinds of assistance,
such as: opening doors, retrieving things I drop and helping
around the house. He got in touch with some of the UK
organisations involved in training assistance dogs and we began
organising a meeting with a UK trainer.
1
Was training in a wheelchair very different than training with
Quasi?
Earlier this year, Isolde Carmody, 32, from Carrickon-Shannon, County Leitrim became our first
wheelchair user to be trained with a guide dog. We
spoke with Isolde about her inspiring experience.
Isolde was born and raised in her family
home in Dublin. She attended secondary
school in The High School in Rathgar before
attending University. She currently works
as Chairperson of the Leitrim Association
of People with Disabilities (LAPWD).
Isolde, tell us a bit more about how you came to train with a
guide dog?
I was born with a visual impairment. I never considered my
condition in relation to disability or blindness until I went to
University, where I was registered as a student with disabilities. I
began to learn to use Braille while at University and a white cane
as a mobility aid, but I found it very difficult as I was beginning to
have problems with pain in my wrists. Also, as an independent
young woman, I found that using a white cane made me feel
insecure when walking around Dublin at night. I began to consider a guide dog as a solution to both these
problems. I trained with my first guide-dog, Quasi in 2001 when
I had just started my post-graduate studies. She utterly changed
my quality of life giving me new freedom and confidence.
www.guidedogs.ie
Yes, training with Izac was very different, partly because my
physical energy levels are so much less than before. Training
included getting Izac to open and close doors by giving him
commands to push or pull and him fetching things that I drop
on the floor. He quickly figured out how to grab my walkingsticks and crutches in his mouth and bring it up to my hand. I
was thrilled with the quality of Izac’s work. He learned incredibly
quickly, by the end of the week, Izac and I were already trying
new things, like him pulling off my slippers and boots! As before,
the staff in IGDB provided great company and care.
What other things can Izac help with? My quality of life is vastly improved. He’s made life at home
really easy, he even helps me to do my own laundry. He
picks up laundry and hands it to me to put into the machine,
takes it out and hands it to me to put on the line. He has
also made it so much easier to go out with my wheelchair.
Being able to just leave the house without waiting for anyone
else to help me is a freedom that most people don’t realise
they have. As Izac is specifically trained to work with a chair,
he’s very good at guiding me to pavement dishes when I’m
crossing a road and leaving enough space for the chair if
we’re going round an obstacle. When we’re out, most of the
reactions I get are on how beautiful he is. I still, however, have
more of a problem explaining to people that they can’t pet
him while he’s on duty than explaining that he’s well-trained
and won’t bite!
What has been the highlight of your experience so far?
It’s hard to pinpoint any single highlight. There’s still a good
bit of work involved, especially if I’m teaching him new things.
2
Every time that bit of work pays off and he understands the
task that I’m asking him to do, it’s a real delight.
Isolde also pointed out that there needs to be more
awareness around the impact of having multiple disabilities,
and how these disabilities combine to make life much more
challenging for the individual.
3
1. (Top): Nadine, Janice and Suzanne out and about with Izac, teaching
him how to guide a person while walking alongside a wheelchair.
2. (Middle): Nadine gets Izac used to using a rope to open doors.
3. (Bottom): Suzanne teaches Izac how to navigate corners.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
16
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Training Round-up
Independent Living
Skills Class Jan 2010
Guide Dog Class Jan
2010
Gardening Skills Class
March 2010
Gardening Skills Class
March 2010
L-R: Sharon Byrne, Liam
Hurley (Volunteer), Louise
Taylor, Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor) & Kathleen
Doyle.
L-R: Craig Marsh, Joe
McPhillips, Jenny O’ Connell
and Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor).
Guide Dog Class Jan
2010
Orientation and
Mobility Class
Feb 2010
Orientation &
Mobility Class
April 2010
Guide Dog Class April
2010
L-R: Mary Dunne, Irene
Whitley, Patrick Dunne
and Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor).
L-R: Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor), Mary Lavelle,
Barry O’ Donnell & Martin
Lawlor.
Guide Dog Classes
March 2010
Orientation and
Mobility Class
May 2010
Orientation and
Mobility June 2010
Leisure Pursuits Class
June 2010
Guide Dog Class June
2010
L-R: Jim Byrne, Aoife Josh
(Mobility Instructor), Johnny
Byrne.
L-R: Joan Sweeny with
Timber (Puppy Walked
by Desmond O’ Toole) &
Natalie Caicedo (Guide
Dog Mobility Instructor).
Assistance Dog Class
March 2010
L-R:
Martin
Falvey
(Assistance Dog Instructor),
Patricia Clarke with Oma
(Puppy Walked by Anna
Giblin), Ann Marie Power
with Riva (Puppy Walked
by Mary & Declan Jones
&
Sarah
McGauley),
Mary Cahill with Obi
(Puppy Walked by Louise
Heffernan)
& Theresa
Roche with Selwyn (Puppy
Walked by Anna O’ Shea).
L-R: TJ Herne with Keeva (Puppy
Walked by Karin & Martin Duffy),
Pat Bourke with Major (Puppy
Walked by Noreen McGowan),
Mary Murphy with Polly (Puppy
Walked by Clare Burke), Margaret
Kelly with Hewett (Puppy Walked
by Daragh Healy & Anna Carlton
/ Deirdre Nolan), Ann Ward with
Adie (Puppy Walked by Des &
Denise Mulreany), Liam Lynch
with Reggie (Puppy Walked
by Anita May). Behind Natalie
Caicedo and Simon Osburne
(Guide Dog Mobility Instructors).
Assistance Dog Class
March 2010
Assistance Dog Class
March 2010
L-R:
Michelle
McEvoy
with Perri (Puppy Walked
by Sheila Burrows), Ann
Watters
with
Lucan
(Puppy Walked by Colette
Herbert), Pamela Byrne
with Ollie (Puppy Walked
by Rachel & Gerry Hughes),
Gail O’ Driscoll with Nita
(Puppy Walked by Shauna
Hughes), John McDonald
with Maisie (Puppy Walked
by Val & Tony Brierton).
www.guidedogs.ie
L-R: Isolde Carmody with
Izac (Puppy Walked by
Patricia Kinsella).
L-R: Jayne Husband (Assistance
Dog Instructor), Janet O’
Hagen with Maverick (Puppy
Walked by Harry & Margo
Topham), Dorothy Hanlon with
Lissa (Puppy Walked by Paula
Prendergast & Louise Walsh),
Ciara O’ Sullivan with Nev (Puppy
Walked by Nora McDowell),
Colette O’ Flaherty with Tullagh
(Puppy Walked by Tim & Cathy
Laughlin), Alan Duggan with
Toffee (Puppy Walked by Andrea
O’ Reilly), Gerard Burke with
Monza (Puppy Walked by Jacinta
& Tim Wheatman) & Rhea Eswer
(Assistance Dog Instructor).
L – R: Pat McCarthy, Robbie
Sinnott, Liam O’ Connor
& Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor).
L – R: Gerry Kerr, Freddie
McCarthy, Emer Mulhall &
Janet Conway.
L-R: Eva Marie West with
Parker (Puppy Walked by
Evelyn De Labre O’ Leary),
Donna Lang with Vita
(Puppy Walked by Des &
Denise Mulreany), Patricia
O’ Halloran with Pasha
(Puppy Walked by Christine
Eichbaum / Valeria & Mark
Parker), Gerry Burke with
Rolo (Puppy Walked by
Adrian & Noelle Sheedy).
Behind Eoin Slattery (Guide
Dog Mobility Instructor).
L – R: Julie Ann Barry,
Margaret Scully, Mary Farrell
& Aoife Josh (Mobility
Instructor).
Back Row L – R: Susan
Turtle (Guide Dog Trainer)
& Nathalie Wood (Guide
Dog Mobility Instructor).
Front Row L – R: Craig
Marsh with Vera (Puppy
Walked by Mary O’ Dea),
Michelle Toner with Dickens
(Puppy Walked by Eileen
O’ Riordan) Michael Brady
with Ulan (Puppy Walked
by Jenny & Roy Dale) &
Jade McCormack with Yanni
(Puppy Walked by Austin
Brien & Johanna Nicolien).
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
17
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GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Training Round-up continued...
Guide Dog Class July 2010
L-R: Ed Harper with Izzy (Puppy Walked
by Regina Dwyer), Guide Dog Mobility
Instructor Natalie Caicedo, Patricia
Harlin with Willa (Puppy Walked by
Maire Love).
Guide Dog Class July 2010
L-R: Jennifer Barrett with Westly (Puppy
Walked by Mike and Grainne Keane),
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Natalie
Caicedo and Rachel Doyle with Velma
(Puppy Walked by Colette & Bert Carty).
Inspirational
Fundraising!
At the moment we are all well aware of the difficult
economic conditions in Ireland. Irish Guide Dogs for
the Blind (IGDB) is no different to other charitable
organisations with our fundraising income well down
this year. We have had to adapt and keep on working
our hardest to provide our important services. We got
in touch with some of our branches to get the inside
story on fundraising at the moment.
Enniscorthy Branch, Co. Wexford
Margaret Fitzpatrick, Branch Secretary, reports that in spite of the
times, there is still huge support in her area. Margaret’s connections
and enthusiasm saw IGDB being represented in a much publicised local
event recently ‘Charity Celebrity Wannabe’ (see page 24).
Assistance Dog Class July 2010
L-R Back Row: Martin Falvey Assistance Dog Instructor
L-R Front Row: Tommie Crosbie with Fleur (Puppy Walked by Celine Quinn), Marie Brilly
with Swan (Puppy Walked by Evelyn & John Sheehan), Declan Slattery with Tayto (Puppy
Walked by Mary O’ Dowd) & Pamela Byrne with Vonda (Puppy Walked by Josephine Treacy).
She pays credit to Stephen Murphy, a keen supporter of IGDB,
who launched the event as his brainchild and also to Teddy Quinn,
who performed on behalf of IGDB. “It’s really important to have
some good connections and key people on your side”, Margaret
explains, “and a supportive team. I work closely with Ursula Breen
who has been excellent”. Margaret also suggests “Keep doing things,
no matter how small such as a Valentines Day or Easter hampers,
to keep up your profile. It reminds people of the cause and that
you are there. People will get to know you and you’ll gain support.
It’s also really important to thank everyone who gets involved, we
couldn’t do what we do without the support and we are so grateful”.
Naas / Newbridge Branch, Co. Kildare
Phil Geoghegan, Branch Treasurer, reports that even though fundraising
is tougher, things are still holding up well. Last year, the branch held the
Annual Naas Golf Classic which was a great success raising €15,000.
Although events like this are fantastic, Phil stresses the importance of
having a regular fundraising presence.
She described a recent on-street collection that went very well,
which Mary Furlong attended, mother of Sarah Furlong who is
partnered with Assistance Dog Gerty. Phil says, “Gerty made a
huge difference. Having a guide or assistance dog there will really
draw children and dog lovers in and people are more likely to
give.” She also says that having lots of support around you when
fundraising is essential. This can be achieved by getting others
involved and keeping in touch with IGDB’s Fundraising Team in Cork.
A & A Branch in Co. Dublin
Independent Living Skills Class – Home Skills - July 2010
L-R: Victoria Elliott Mobility Instructor, Orlaith Kealy, Christina McCarthy, Bernadette
Casey, William Nolan & Aoife Josh (Mobility Instructor).
www.guidedogs.ie
Angela Bradley reports, “Collections are down on last year but then
there are times when you feel there is no recession at all.” Angela was
out and about collecting a few collection dogs and boxes recently which
contained significant contributions. She believes that people’s great love
of the cause shines through, especially when times are tough. She says
n Above: Seen here from left to right are our
Fundraising Team Paddy Delaney (Commercial Manager),
Kerry McMahon (Community Fundraising Officer) and
Fundraising Administrators Anne Burns, Bernadette Healy
and Susan Whitford.
people still are very generous, it’s very rewarding to see. Apart
from successful supermarket collections, her Branch has had a
special bond with Ringsend Church, who invited them to every
mass this year to collect. They also had guest speakers at the
services such as Jenny O’ Connell, who “moved her audience
so much, they just took to her” with her inspiring story (Jenny’s
story is featured on page 22).
Angela says, “Contributing to fundraising doesn’t have to
depend on how much time you have, everyone can do
something small or get involved in some way. It’s also rewarding
because you never know how much someone could give, one
time someone put a fifty euro note into the collection!”
Waterford / Tramore Branch
We also spoke to Jill McElroy, Branch Chairperson to find out
if the recession has had an impact on fundraising. She said,“It’s
tough but we’re still taking in money and that’s the most
important thing.” Even though its hard work, Jill insists that it’s
good fun and enjoyable. Jill is surrounded by a great team of
puppy walkers and a great sense of community: “We bounce
ideas off each other”. Her team are also fortunate to have a
very dedicated Guide Dog Owner Kate Mahon, who takes her
guide dog Ocean along to fundraise.
Jill says that the branch are constantly trying to come up with
new, exciting fundraisers, but that the good old reliables like
supermarket collections are really important. She says, “When
people get used to you they are far more obliging”. She also
says that good PR helps a lot, “Try get into the local paper and
take good photographs of the event.” She says that sometimes,
you also need to be cheeky and push your luck! “For us, the
best fundraisers are around Christmas when we’re selling cards
and calendars. We’re trying to get them into more and more
retail outlets. We’re gearing up for a good fundraising effort
this Christmas!”
Summary of suggested tips
•
Form a supportive team and seek support from our Fundraising Team in Cork as early as possible.
•
Try new things, but don’t underestimate the old reliables like supermarket or church gate collections, coin boxes or collection dogs and Christmas Cards and Calendars!
•
Make good connections to help you along the way. Getting help from people in the local business community is very important. These are busy people and may not always have the time to get fully involved in your Branch but they may be very happy to run a one off event such as golf outing for you. Apart from helping our great cause, it helps to position them in a positive way in their local community and this can have business benefits for them.
•
Always try to have a Guide or Assistance Dog present at your fundraising event to generate maximum attention! In fact, the more you can get along to support the better. If you are experiencing local difficulties, please give the team in Cork a call.
•
Try to fundraise regularly. No matter how small the effort or event, all activities will boost the profile of our cause and our fundraising income.
•
Take plenty of photos and try to get into your local media.
•
Stay positive – you never know when people will be extremely generous!
•
Our Fundraising Team in Cork have a range of new events that can be run locally. These include Table Quiz, Race Nights, Casino Nights and many more. We provide a full Event Management service so all you need to do is drum up the local support with ticket sales. Please give us a call if you would like to know more.
•
Please make a point of keeping in touch with the Fundraising Team in Cork. We will do our very best to support all your local efforts.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
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20
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Our Breeding Programme
When Christine O’Sullivan from Kenmare, Co. Kerry, is asked about being
involved with IGDB, she replies that her whole family are involved. Her children are
best of friends with Banon, a Labrador Brood Bitch. Emma has been a volunteer for the
last nine years and started as a Puppy Walker. However, she thinks being a Breeding
Stock Holder is the best of both worlds as she has the pups until they are six weeks
old and Banon gets to stay at home. Emma’s says her involvement in IGDB means that
her family learns to be appreciative and give to others which makes her very proud.
fRight: Christine O’Sullivan with her husband Paddy, her two sons Flor and Padraig, and
her two daughters Eilish and Orla with Banon.
Michael Edmonds is Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind’s (IGDB) Breeding Coordinator and has been a staff
member for over 30 years. Michael modestly denies he’s an expert, but having worked in the area for so
long and through the research he does, he could easily be described as one! Michael knows all the dogs
by name and the generations they have come from. He also really enjoys when our pups come back
to the Training Centre. “The new building has been great, especially the puppy viewing area. It’s great to
see children looking and laughing at the antics of the pups when they come to visit.” Michael helped to
develop the Breeding Programme over years of testing which dogs produce the optimum characteristics
to become guide or assistance dogs. He is proud that our dogs are sent across the world. Recently we
sent a brood bitch to Austrailia. Dogs also travel to The Netherlands, Britain, and even as far as Korea. He
also has many great things to say about our Breeding Stock Holders. It means a lot to him to have such
committed volunteers. Michael was getting ready to travel to visit a Breeding Stock Holder whose brood
bitch and puppies were sick. It really helps that we have a relationship with our volunteers, “I believe it’s
so important to have a personal touch, we try our best to support our volunteers 24/7,” says Michael.
Meet some of our Breeding Stock Holders
Sam Healy is the proud carer of Brood Bitch Zoe, a German Shepherd, who
lives with her family in Bantry. When Zoe gives birth, Sam’s job involves constantly
minding and checking on Zoe and the pups. She has been associated with us for
the last 25 years. Family members love to call to see the new pups, which brings
the family together. She also enjoys the fact that her children are growing up with
an awareness and interest in IGDB through Zoe.
fRight: From left to right is Finnian, brood bitch Zoe, Kodie, Suannie and Eden.
Maria Burke is a teacher from Innishannon, Co. Cork and has been a Stud Dog
Holder for the last 11 years. She currently cares for stud dog Lewis and his father,
Mac, who are both Golden Retrievers. Maria describes her dogs as the life and
soul of the house! The dogs are great company, always waiting when the family
come home, tails wagging. For Maria, the advantages greatly outweigh any work
she has to do to keep the dogs to the highest standard. She even appreciates
when the dogs take her out for a walk instead of the other way around! For Maria,
one of the most satisfying parts of being involved in our Breeding Programme and
Puppy Walking is knowing that a dog has changed someone’s life.
fRight: Three generations of Maria’s dogs, Zanya, Lewis and Mac.
www.guidedogs.ie
Anne and Jack O’Shea, from Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, started with IGDB as
Puppy Walkers and received their first pup, Honey, a Labrador Golden Retriever,
in 2006. Anne and Jack are a strong team, supporting each other by sharing the
work of looking after the pups, and their three daughters love to help too. The
puppies are not allowed visitors until they are four weeks old, after which Anne
compiles a timetable of visitors there are so many! She feels that when people
see the dogs and hear about what she does, it’s a great way of raising awareness.
Anne grew up in a household that always had two dogs, and her mother was
involved in fundraising for IGDB, which motivated her to become a Puppy Walker.
fRight: Anne O’Shea with her daughter Miriam and Brood Bitch Honey.
Emma Stewart Liberty from Ballyvaughan, Co. Claire, is the holder of retired
Brood Bitch, Anna, and current Brood Bitch Jerrie, both Golden Retrievers. Emma
has a huge love of the puppies, she finds it really hard to say goodbye to them.
Emma volunteered as a Puppy Walker ten years ago, but became a Breeding Stock
Holder when she moved to the country. It’s the puppies that motivate her to
volunteer. She loves to see the strong maternal instinct of a pup’s mother: an
experience that she describes as humbling. Emma and her husband have had ten
litters of puppies in their house which is a total of 83 puppies and Emma can
remember every litter. Even though she describes the work as exhausting, she feels
strongly honoured and lucky to have the pups. Emma’s neighbours Olivia, Megan,
Maria and David Beuselinck never fail to call to see the pups and help out.
fRight: From left to right Echo, Paul Woycik, Juno, Anna, and Emma Steward Liberty.
Mary Marron, from Bandon, Co. Cork, has been a volunteer for eight years. She
also started as a Puppy Walker, and is now the holder of stud dog Warner, a Golden
Retriever, for the last four years. Mary and her husband have two children, who were
afraid of dogs when Mary decided to become a Puppy Walker, but it was a good
opportunity for the girls to get used to a dog. The highlight of Mary’s involvement
with the IGDB was when the first pup she had qualified as a guide dog. She felt very
proud. She also likes to keep in touch and see pictures of Warner’s pups, and how
well they have been doing. Mary believes that giving of your time as a volunteer is just
as important as donating. She says, “It’s also very satisfying as it’s an opportunity to
build a relationship.”
fRight: Mary Marron with her two daughters Eva and Sally and stud dog Warner.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
21
22
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Profile - Jenny O’ Connell
jLeft: Jenny with her guide dog Jilly
and her granddaughter Lucy.
Community News
23
Naas / Newbridge Golf Classic success
The Naas / Newbridge IGDB Branch held a Golf Classic at
Palmerstown on April 19th . In recent years the event has brought
in a substantial amount for IGDB.
In May 2009, surgeons at Dublin’s Royal Victoria Eye and Ear
Hospital successfully carried out an operation known as Boston
Keratoprosthesis surgery, giving her partial vision.
The transition to sight has been difficult at times, Jenny says. “I’ve
had to learn new ways of doing things. My sight is not perfectly
clear as yet, so I can sometimes bump something over that’s right
in front of me because I didn’t see it, so it has been frustrating at
times. I also had difficulty with associating shapes of items in reality
with what I had visualised in my mind all those years before
my operation. This included picking up things such as cups off
the table. I also had difficulty making sense of steam coming
out of a boiling kettle, due to the fact that this was something I
could never physically touch but could see after the operation.”
Jenny O’Connell
on living her dream
Jenny admits she didn’t expect
the change to affect her as much
as it did. “Having to get used to a
whole new world in one go was
overwhelming – it felt like learning
to walk all over again. In some ways
it was actually easier when I was
blind because I trusted my guide
dog Jilly implicitly. I was never aware
of danger so I felt completely safe.
Now when I’m out and about, I
sometimes hold back because I see
a moving shape coming towards me.
The team at Irish Guide Dogs for
the Blind have helped me to adjust vAbove: Jenny making her
my working style so I’ve made good confirmation before she lost
progress. Fortunately, I also had great her sight.
support at home and this helped me
to adjust and be patient with myself.”
Guide dog owner Jenny O’Connell’s life long dream
of regaining her sight became a reality late last year
after 46 years of being blind. After 78 previous
eye operations, Jenny wasn’t too sure whether the
pioneering procedure she was to undergo would deliver
on its promise. When the post-op eye-patch came Jenny speaks of her husband, Sean, as being “a pillar of support over
off her right eye for that final time, Jenny could see the last year, and without him, I would never have been able to find
again for the first time since she was eleven years old. the courage to undergo this final operation and make the difficult
Jenny describes how she felt at that moment: “All my dreams
came true within minutes. It was overwhelming. The most
enjoyable moment of my life came when Sean, my husband of
30 years, my daughter Martina, her fiancé, Alan, my son, Michael
and his wife Laura, walked into the room. This was the first time
I could see my family and it was a very emotional moment
for us all. When I got home, I took Jilly, my guide dog, out into
the garden and I started crying at how green the grass was.”
transition.” Speaking about the operation and the changes to their lives,
Sean says, “When I first met Jenny she could not see.This is the Jenny I
was used to, a woman who did not let her visual impairment stop her
from enjoying her life. She has always been very active, participating
in knitting and other craft classes provided by the National League for
the Blind, as well as being a very positive person.This characteristic has
helped her make the transition from being blind to having partial sight.
I am very happy for Jenny. She has dreamed of this for a long time and
it could not have happened to a nicer person. Long may it last.”
Jenny, originally from Glasthule in Dublin, has lived in Kimmage for
the last 32 years. She lost her sight in 1963 at the age of 11 due to
a bad reaction to medication. Although she didn’t let the disability
hold her back, she never lost hope that one day she would see again.
Jenny continues, “Overall, I am happy with the outcome and am feeling
a lot more comfortable now than in the beginning. It’s been a joy to see
my children and husband, and not to mention my little granddaughter
Lucy. Each day it gets easier so I’ve much to look forward to.”
www.guidedogs.ie
Highlighting our volunteers at the Cork
Volunteer Fair
In April, IGDB took part in The Lord Mayor’s Volunteer
Fair held in the City Hall during Cork Volunteer Week.
The Fair featured an exhibition of photographs taken by
Cork Camera Group of volunteers from various charities
in action. Volunteer Week aims to thanks volunteers and
highlight the valuable contribution they make to charities
and society as a whole in Cork. Pictured is Alison Flack
(Douglas / Roachestown IGDB Branch Chairperson) with
Fundraising Dog Doughal and then Lord Mayor of Cork,
Cllr. Dara Murphy.
IGDB Represented at Celebrity Jigs and
Reels
Carmel Clancy represented IGDB in the Sligo Lions Club
Celebrity Jigs and Reels event held in February, raising
approximately €1,000 through the event. Fourteen local
charities were represented and benefitted from the funds
raised on the night.
Pictured is Bob Murphy
with his guide dog
Nester (left), and Tom
Kavanagh and his guide
dog Kipp (right) making
a presentation to Carmel
Clancy in recognition of
her performance and
effort.
Pictured here at the event from left to right are Phil Geoghegan (Naas
BranchTreasurer), Liz McKeown with her Guide Dog Keano, JeanTurner
(Naas Branch Secretary), Geraldine Mangan with Assistance Dog Leila,
Mary Furlong with Assistance Dog Gerty, Mary Togher (Naas Branch
Chairperson) and Decan Furlong with Frodo.
Top of the ‘coffee’ morning to you!
In April, Aine O’Brien-Farrell from Waterford hosted a coffee
gathering in her garden in celebration of brood bitch Waika
who was due to give birth to a litter of pups at the beginning
of May. Aine then followed the coffee morning up with a
‘Puppy-Parting’ Party in June to bid farewell to Waika’s pups
as they headed off to our National Headquarters and Training
Centre in preparation for puppy walking. Aine raised €490
through both events!
n Above: Seen here second from the right is Aine O’ BrienFarrell with Waika and her party guests along with a specially
branded IGDB cake.
Alison Flack’s Open
Garden
Alison Flack hosted an Open Garden
on two consecutive days in her home
in Carrigaline Cork in May and raised
over €400 for IGDB.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
24
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Enniscorthy Celebrity Wannabe Contest
Thank you to those of
you who supported
the ‘Charity Celebrity
Wannabe’
contest
in
Enniscorthy
in
April. We’re delighted to
announce that Ted Quinn
(aka Charlie Landsboro)
came in second place in
the final and in so doing,
earned €1,000 for IGDB.
Ted raised a further
€6,000.
Pictured is Ted Quinn as Charlie
Landsboro
On track with the Vintage Tractor Run
The South Roscommon Vintage Club held its annual Charity Road
Run in May. The Vintage Tractor Run saw the colourful convoy
cover 60 miles through a number of midland towns, ending at
Millars Pub in Ballydongan. The event raised €1,100 which was
presented to the Athlone Branch of IGDB.
Our Volunteers go all out for SHADES
Raheney has made a great effort for the SHADES campaign this
year. Pictured here is Barry Murphy, the Co-ordinator of Raheny
Business Association with Assistance Dog Clive. As well as three
schools Clive visited with Barry during the SHADES Campaign,
every shop and business in the village had a SHADES box on
display and everyone was wearing a SHADES pin! Thank you for
your support Raheney!
Whitechurch
Macra na
Feirme
Cheque
Presentation
25
JFC Golf Classic in ClareMorris
JFC Manufacturing hosted a Fundraising Golf Classic (17th of
June) and Charity Dance (18th of June) in aid of Irish Guide
Dogs for the Blind. All in all, €13,500 was raised.
Representing
Whitechurch
Macra na Feirme
are Ciara Lynch,
Sean Twomey, John
Michael Creedon and Victor O’Sullivan who came to our
National Headquarters to present a cheque for €1,000
- the proceeds of a fundraising coffee morning they had
hosted. Seen with them is Susan Turtle (IGDB Guide Dog
Trainer) with dogs in training, Diva and Fay.
Kilbrittain Vintage Rally
SHADES Fundraising in
Ballyogan
Pictured at the launch of the event from left to right: Michael
Conway (Captain), Peggy Tawse (Lady Captain), Willie and Angela
Kyne from Cortoon, Shrule with their guide dog ‘Flame’, John
Concannon (JFC) and Billy Clarke (Club President).
Sheep Shearing Championship
Pictured alongside is Bernard Johnson,
Guide Dog owner with his Guide Dog
Wiz (right) and Assistance Dog Clive
(left), out fundraising for SHADES in
Dunnes Stores in Ballyogan, Dublin on
1st May.
SHADES in Cork
Thank you to all who joined and
donated to IDGB on the streets of Ballincollig on Saturday 8th
May for our Shades Campaign, we raised €1,556. We raised
€1,918 in Cork City SHADES day on Sat 22nd May.
Pictured from left to right is John Roche (PRO South Roscommon
Vintage Club), Martin Mulvey, Aidan Kelly, Billy Gallagher (Athlone
IGDB), Mary Gallagher (Athlone IGDB), Michael Duffy (Athlone
IGDB) and fundraising dog Ben.
Dub Ladies support the Flora Mini Marathon
www.guidedogs.ie
Pictured here is Jim Delaney (Treasurer, Portlaoise Branch) at the
IGDB stand at Portlaoise Sheep Shearing Championships.
Crookstown Annual Puppy Walk
IGDB’s Crookstown Branch held their annual puppy walk in
July and raised a net sum of €16,500. Various guests spoke
at the cheque presentation function held in Crookstown,
commending the support of the local community and the
tremendous effort put in by the Crookstown Branch in support
of people living with sight loss.
The Burren
Marathon
Pictured is Paul Wojcik
at the start of the
Burren Marathon in
May with his friends
Conrad & Father
Forde (parish priest
for Ballyvaughan and
Fanore Parish). Paul
walked 26.1 miles and
raised €485 for IGDB!
Alison Flack (IGDB Rochestown Branch) is seen here with
Gareth Murphy, John O’Brien, Barry Madden and Mary
O’Neill standing alongside Gareth’s prized entry into the
Vintage Rally, a Steam Engine (The Queen of the Steam).
The event was well attended, raising just under €3,000 for
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Pictured here are Sisters Anne, Claire and Helen Boyle who
completed the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon on Monday 7th
June raising funds for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. Our thanks
goes to all the ladies who took to the streets to support us.
Michael Creed TD and Cllr. Martin Coughlan, Mayor of
Macroom, were among the guest speakers who praised the
Committee’s efforts in the community, as well as Tara Mullally,
daughter of our founding member, Jim Dennehy, who spoke of
her joy in taking part in the annual walk since coming to live
in the area.
Seen here are from left to right: Tessie Buckley, John Doyle, Norma
Lordan, Kitty O’Callaghan, John Joe Buckley and friends presenting
the cheque to our CEO, Padraig Mallon.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
26
GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES
Youthlines
The Teresian School
Cathy Mac Aleavey (Volunteer Puppy Walker) gave a talk to
3rd year students in The Teresian School in Dublin.The students
had raised €500 for IGDB. Pictured here is the class with puppy
Lyza and teacher Paula far right.
Belvedere College Visit
Twenty-eight 1st Year students from Belvedere College
accompanied by four of their teachers visited our Training
Centre in May. For the last 25 years Belvedere College has
been faithfully raising funds for IGDB with their annual Block
Pull being one of the annual highlights on our fundraising
calendar of events.
Scoil Bhride raise funds for SHADES
School visits during SHADES 2010
Fiona Whooley and her Assistance Dog Clive went on a number of school visits during this year’s SHADES campaign. The pair visited
Scoil Áine Naofa National School, Scoil Assaim Boys National School and the Manor House School in Raheny. Pictured above is Manor
House School Principal, Miss O’Neill, Mrs Fullam (Year Head), 2nd Years Christine Feeney, Karolina Pawlak, Lauren Burdis, Emily-Kate
Norris, Ylenia Colametteo, Shauna O’Connell presenting their SHADES fundraising proceeds to Fiona and Clive during their visit.
Pictured here are the staff and pupils of Scoil Bhride National
School, Ballydehob, Co. Cork, who held a SHADES DAY
fundraiser on 1st June. There are eight puppies of the ‘D’ litter
being cuddled in the front row!
Art Raffle
Colaiste Mhuire Johnstown raise funds
Teacher Mary Sheehan and students from Colaiste Mhuire,
Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny, visited our National Training Centre
and are seen here presenting the proceeds of their fundraising
efforts to Ian Freyne, Kennels Assistant.
www.guidedogs.ie
Pictured left to right
is Pauline Geraghty,
a teacher from St.
Peter’s School in
Rathgar, with Patrick
Costigan and his
Guide Dog Quandro
and David Moran,
a pupil who raffled
some of his paintings
to fundraise for Irish
Guide Dogs for the
Blind.
Coláiste Chiaráin in Leixlip raise funds for
SHADES
St. Kevin’s School in Greystones
St. Kevin’s School in Greystones were delighted to have a visit
from a Puppy in Training earlier this year. Pictured is Sally Ryan
(Volunteer Puppy Walker) and puppy in training Bree with
students from St. Kevin’s.
Fiona Duffy, daughter of Karin Duffy, organised a SHADES
fundraiser in Coláiste Chiaráin in Leixlip, Co. Kildare. Some
of our puppies in training entertain the students during their
lunch hours and €305 was raised. Seen here is Fiona (left) with
Flame and Julie (right) with Glenn.
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
27
Looking for a special gift
idea this Christmas?
Please help
me become a
guide dog when
I grow up!
Why not sponsor a puppy as a
gift for a loved one this
Christmas!
For as little as €5 a month, you can
support a puppy through it first year of
training, helping it on its journey
to becoming a guide dog or an
assistance dog.
The person receiving your special gift
will receive a photograph of your chosen
puppy and get regular updates on its
progress throughout the first twelve
month training period.
Become a sponsor and help us to change a
life forever!
To view and select one of our puppies
seeking sponsorship, simply go to:
www.guidedogs.ie
or call us on
1850 506 300