NOVEMBER 8,
2009, is the day that changed Nicky Cleere’s life forever.
A sports mad
all-rounder, Nicky was the victim of a hit and run accident while on a trip in
Lisbon which left him with severe head injuries.
Nicky, now 30,
grew up in Malahide and attended Malahide Community School where his love of
sport began, winning the Michael Hoey sports award for his natural talent as a
GAA footballer. Nicky went on to captain the Dublin minors to an All-Ireland
semi-final appearance in 1999 and represented the county at Under 21 level.
Today he is a
loyal supporter of St Sylvester’s GAA Club where he played his club football.
Being an all-rounder, Nicky is also a Chartered Surveyor, qualifying at Savills
(formerly Hamilton Osbourne King) just before his accident.
Nicky’s journey
since the accident has been inspirational, but his care comes at a cost.
To help Nicky on
his journey a sponsored cycle from Malin Head, County Donegal to Malahide,
Nicky’s home town, has been organised and will take place in three stages over
two days – September 30 and October 1.
Colleagues and
friends of Nicky will cycle 270km to raise much-needed funds for his care.
Larry Brennan,
chairman at Savills and event organiser, told Northside People:
“Nicky holds a
special place in all of our hearts. He is an inspiration to everyone at
Savills.
“What Nicky has
achieved since his accident is phenomenal.
“This 270km
cycle would be a major challenge for the fittest athlete, for Nicky it’s a mere
fraction of the work he has put in to get to where he is today.
?
Nicky currently
attends the Rehabilitation Training Unit in Dun Laoghaire where he is
concentrating on redeveloping his cognitive skills.
Donations can be
made at www.sponsor.ie/charity/nickycleeretrust.
It is hoped that
the event will raise
?¬25,000 towards Nicky’s ongoing treatment.