Epic walk for Crumlin Children's Hospital

KILDARE native Paddy Kane arrived in sunny Belmullet last night as part of an adventure of a lifetime - and in the process is raising much needed funds for Our Lady's Children's Hospital in Crumlin.

On July 1, Paddy’s first steps of a 2,500km-long journey commenced in Malin Head. Averaging about 30km per day on coastal trails and by-roads, Paddy is hoping to reach Kinsale in Co. Cork - the end of the Wild Atlantic Way - by mid-September.

“As it stands in Belmullet, I’m on schedule. I’m sticking to the plan of completing 30km a day, divided between 20km in the morning and 10km after lunch.

“At this pace, the adventure will be a total of 84 days of hilly climbs, forest floors and rural roads – all while carrying 15kg of equipment, including a tent. I’ve been particularly blessed with the weather so far in glorious north Mayo,” said Paddy.

Recently retired following 38 years in ESB Networks, Paddy is combining his love of the outdoors with the opportunity to give something back by raising money for a worthy cause.

“The pain I’ll feel is nothing compared to some of the brave kids in Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin. Everyone in Ireland knows someone who is effected by a child in there. The hospital is 60 years old this year and I’m not getting any younger either.”

Paddy’s main concern has been his ability to stay in touch while he walking some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. “I’m contacting local walking groups and any ESB staff I know for both the company and hopefully a roof over my head.”

To donate to the cause or help Paddy along the way you can follow his progress on his Facebook page, email him at trexstraffan@gmail.com or donate to www.cmrf.org/user/patrick-1.