Michael completes epic walk and fulfills promise to himself

A BIG-hearted great-grandfather from Sutton recently completed an epic walk for a cause close to his heart.

Michael Connolly (87) has raised over €8,000 for cancer research by walking over 100kms around St Anne’s Park.

Michael made a promise to do just this when his daughter Breege was diagnosed with lung cancer two months ago.

Pictured L to R: Joanne (daughter in law), Des (son), Michael, Daniel (grandson), Breege (daughter) Celia (wife)

He had originally planned to walk from his old school in Monaghan town to Dublin but was advised that the road might be a bit dangerous for someone his age.

So, Michael had to change his plans slightly but nothing was going to stop him.

He travelled back to his native county on Wednesday, October 7 to launch his fundraising walk outside his old school.

On Friday October 23, after two weeks of walking around St Anne’s Park, Michael proudly finished his epic trek.

As he completed his final lap, he was joined by members of An Garda Siocahana, from Raheny and Clontarf stations, and his family who offered support and massive congratulations.

“I made a promise to myself to do it, and I always keep my promises,” Michael told Northside People.

“I’ve walked around 125km in total which is the distance from Monaghan to my home,” he said.

“I met quite a lot of old friends I haven’t seen in a while, and Sergeant Erin Lee from Clontarf station accompanied me on a lap of the park with some of my family, including my daughter Breege who has the cancer, and her daughter who returned home from Australia to look after her.

“The superintendent and inspector were there too. I had to make a speech at the end and I got a clap for it.

“I’m floating on air now!” he added. “I know every tree and bush in this park at this stage. Hopefully we can raise more money for such very important work.

“Cancer affects so many families in Ireland, I hope I can raise plenty of money for cancer research, all donations will be greatly appreciated.

“My family has been affected by cancer, I have had cancer recently but I’m over it now.

“My son had a battle with it in the past, but it was more recently when my daughter Breege was diagnosed that I got the idea to do something.

Michael also had a few words of advice for older people thinking of getting back into exercise.

“I would encourage anyone of any age to do some walking and stay active,” he said.

“It breaks the monotony, it’s good for the mind and it’s good for the body.

“Start easy and build up your stamina.

“I’ll take a few days off now, but I won’t hang up the walking shoes!”

To contribute to Michael’s fund you can make a donation at AIB Bank, Sutton with the IBAN IE64AIBK93236130250028.