Rugby star Alex Kendellen and Limerick Person of the Year 12-year-old Padraig O’Callaghan from ‘The Paudcast’ are asking people to ‘Go for Gold’ in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland this Summer.
The charity’s Go for Gold campaign celebrates people with Down syndrome going for gold in everything they achieve. Supporting the campaign will help raise vital funds so the charity can continue to provide children and adults with Down syndrome the resources they need as they continue their educational journey and get the best support possible throughout.
Barry Sheridan CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland said: “In the past two years, children and adults with Down syndrome have adjusted from socialising, going to classes and meeting in person, to studying and socialising online, despite hurdles they always aim for the gold standard in everything they do. This summer, we are asking people to celebrate their achievements and host a Go for Gold event – all while having fun in the process.”
Go for Gold is a fundraiser based on inclusivity, so Down Syndrome Ireland is asking people to participate in any creative challenge they decide with their family, friends, community or colleagues. It can be a scavenger hunt, sports day, ‘Longest Without’ challenge, the sky is the limit. If you need any inspiration, Down Syndrome Ireland will provide you with a list of fundraising suggestions.
“We are thrilled to have Munster rugby player Alex Kendellen and Padraig O’Callaghan join us and share their Go for Gold stories with us to help inspire others on their go for gold journeys,” Mr Sheridan continued.
Both of the charity’s Go for Gold Ambassadors have shared the importance of supporting Down Syndrome Ireland this summer and how they aim for gold in their own lives.
Padraig’s podcast, ‘The Paudcast’ has had over 390,000 views since its launch, an amazing achievement for a 12-year-old. Meanwhile Alex – who hails from Cork – is a regular face in the Munster senior rugby team and we are looking forward to seeing where he goes next.
Padraig’s dad Brian O’Callaghan generously shared some early photos of Padraig after his early arrival by emergency c-section at 31 weeks weighing 2lb 15oz.
Sharing Padraig’s first months, his Dad Brian said: “After an ambulance dash to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin for life saving surgery, Padraig had a 6 weeks stay in the neo natal unit in Cork. After that, he came home and has never looked back. He is now a healthy, determined 12-year-old who shares his inspirational and positive love of life with people all around the world.”
Speaking about his involvement, Padraig said: “I’m so excited to be involved in this campaign – I’m asking people to Go for Gold and help raise vital to help for children and adults with Down syndrome.”
Ambassador and Munster Rugby star Alex Kendellen said: ‘’I’m delighted to support Down Syndrome Ireland in any way I can and raise awareness of the great work they do. My cousin Robert has Down syndrome and this is an organisation that holds a special place in both my heart and my families.’’
To register and get your Go for Gold pack, please visit downsyndrome.ie/event/go-for-gold/
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