A YOUNG Southside boy is to take part in the 2019 KBC Dublin Marathon on behalf of a children’s charity for the fourth consecutive year.
James Casserly (13) is using the challenge to raise funds for Barretstown in the charity’s 25th anniversary year.
James, who has cerebral palsy and juvenile arthritis, has been a camper at Barretstown and has led Team Barretstown in the race every year since he was just 10-years-old.
In 2018 he took part using an assisted chair, pushed by his Dad, Dan. This year his aunt, Alison Casserly, will accompany James in his bid to reach a four in a row.
Commenting on her son’s achievement James’ mum, Vicki Casserly, a local councillor for Lucan and Mayor of South Dublin County Council, said: “We are so proud of James for committing to take part in the marathon again this year, and are really excited that he’s teaming up with his aunt Alison this time around.
“James has never let his illness stop him from taking on big challenges. Barretstown is not only a special place to James, but it’s equally special for us as a family. It brought and brings so much happiness to us and it’s a place where we can just be Mammy, Daddy, James and Tom, not James who is unwell.
“The label is taken away and we just have a crazy amount of fun which is so therapeutic for all of us,” she added.
“Being part of fundraising has brought us all on new adventures and pushed us all to try something new, all the while raising much-needed funds.”
Dee Ahearn, CEO of Barretstown, added: “All of us here at Barretstown are in awe of James’ dedication, and we’re delighted that he is going to lead Team Barretstown in the marathon for the fourth year in a row and especially in our 25th anniversary year.”
The KBC Dublin Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 27.
Every year the charity needs to raise €5.8 million to run its programmes.
Each year the charity recruits the help of over 2,000 volunteers to help run its programmes.
To register go to www.barretstown.org/events/kbc-dublin-marathon.