Fundraising events in support of Bal’ star
A big fundraising concert will take place in Clarke’s Bar, Mullingar on January 25 in aid of a young Ballynacargy Gaelic footballer who has been diagnosed with Leukemia.
Jason McKeon is 21 years old and has starred at midfield for Ballynacargy at intermediate level in recent years. He has served many more years in the various underage grades with the club and all involved are keen to show their support for Jason as he faces a tough challenge.
There will be entertainment from Luke Price music on the night and Luke of course is a playing colleague of Jason’s, so there will be a strong GAA link to the evening. It is hoped that all GAA clubs will row in and support the young player.
Jason is currently undergoing intensive treatment at St. James’ Hospital, Dublin. He is facing this challenge with remarkable positivity and bravery which is no surprise to all those who know him.
Tickets for the concert are very reasonably priced at €10 each and can be purchased from the following committee members:
Ger Connolly 086-8121215; Paul Cahill 086-6097271; Aisling Penrose 086-8776147; Jason Wallace 087-9052729; Johnny Penrose 087-9501495; Aidan Lyons 087-9516648.
Balllynacargy GAA Club is planning another fundraising event over the festive period to support Jason and his family through this difficult time. An under 30s versus over 30s fun and social football match is planned for New Year’s Day at 11am in Moynihan Park, Ballynacargy, with drinks and a darts tournament afterwards in The Wagon Wheel Pub.
Further details for this event are available from Timmy Mescall on 086-3418659.
There is also a GoFundMe page at the following link; https://gofund.me
“The club is urging everyone to get behind Jason at this difficult time and give this great young man all the support he deserves,” said chairman Aidan Lyons.
“Jason is a beloved and respected member of our community. As a dedicated midfielder for Ballynacargy GAA, Jason has always exemplified teamwork, resilience, and a fighting spirit both on and off the pitch.
“Recently, Jason received the difficult diagnosis of leukemia and is now undergoing intensive treatment at St. James’ Hospital in Dublin. Despite the challenges, Jason continues to face this battle with remarkable bravery and positivity, qualities that come as no surprise to those who know him.
“During his treatment and recovery, Jason will be unable to work. To ease the financial burden on him and his family, we have launched this GoFundMe campaign and are organizing a fundraising concert. The funds raised will help cover some of the costs associated with Jason’s treatment and recovery. More importantly, it’s our way of showing Jason that he has an entire community rallying behind him.
“Let’s come together to support Jason in his fight. Your contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. Together, we can give Jason and his family the strength and support they need during this challenging time,” the Ballynacargy GAA club wrote.
Greg's head shave
Minor footballer Greg Penrose has shaved his hair as a fundraiser in support of this very worthy cause. The head shave took place in Greg's school, Coláiste Mhuire, and he succeeded in collecting €617 from teachers, students, family and friends.
It was a lovely gesture by Greg in support of his clubmate Jason.
Jason returns to St. James’ Hospital on December 28 for his next round of treatment and he is wished the very best of luck and our thoughts and prayers are with him.