AN IRISH Coast Guard volunteer who has experienced a number of family bereavements plans to circumnavigate the island by bike in aid of the voluntary support organisation Anam Cara. Stephen Mullally (38), who is based with the rescue service in Tramore, Co Waterford, intends to visit 52 Irish Coast Guard stations on his 1,604km (1,000-mile) circuit.
He expects it will take 12 days, weather permitting. Mullally, a father of one, is a chef by trade and has been training for the cycle since last October. He is particularly committed to Anam Cara, the voluntary organisation which supports bereaved parents, as he lost his father, three siblings and two classmates while he was growing up in Co Waterford.
“Anam Cara is a charity that strikes a chord with me,” Mullally said.
“Had it existed at the time of our bereavements, my family would have been able to avail of its support over the years. I am glad to help an organisation which now offers such a valuable and necessary service.”
Since its inception in 2008,more than 1,500 parents have availed of Anam Cara’s support, according to chief executive Sharon Vard. She says it can identify with the symbolism of Mullally’s challenge, entitled “Beacon of Hope”.
Mullally is married and has a young daughter, Freya,who he describes as “my link to my past and my passport to my future”. He leaves on March 23rd from Tramore.
For more information on Anam Cara, tel: 01-4045378, anamcara.ie. Mullally’s link is on mycharity.ie/event/stephen_
mullallys_coastal_cycle/
