Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland (ASI) Fundraiser By Past Pupils
Three past pupils of the College are raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland by running the Dublin Marathon in October.
Kealan Stewart (Class of 2021), Louis Stewart (Class of 2018) & Oscar Stewart (Class of 2024) are raising funds as a thank you for the care & support that their Mother has received following her diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia.
“Our mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 7 years ago, with a diagnosis of early onset Lewy Body Dementia following on 3 years afterwards at the age of 49; at the same time, our granny was also moved into a nursing home with dementia. Ourselves and our dad became our mum’s primary carer. It got to the stage where the care from Alzheimer’s Ireland, the HSE and our own care just wasn’t enough, and she is now in permanent care at Bloomfield Hospital. Our mum and Granny are some of the strongest women we know; they fight this disease every day, and we know they would drop everything if it were us. We want to run the marathon to give back to ASI for their support and to raise funds to help provide support for more families, as we know how much of an impact it has, with carers who were exceptionally kind, caring and skilful. We want to show other families, that others are going through the exact situation, and to raise awareness that dementia can affect anybody at any age at any time.”
Not only were the 3 lads pupils of Gonzaga, but their Father, Eben Stewart, has been a faculty member of the College. He has worked as a biology & P.E. teacher for the last 26 years.
“Our mother, who has also done work in the school, suffers from Lewy Body Dementia. Her condition has progressed to the stage that she is in the permanent care of Bloomfield Hospital, Rathfarnham. Our father has had to resign his position as teacher, year head and AP, due to her condition worsening.
My brothers and I have decided to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland (ASI), as we received invaluable care from them, which allowed me to complete my Leaving Cert, Louis to finish his degree and for my dad to continue serving his role in Gonzaga.”
It would be great to support them with their inspiring fundraiser. You can view & donate to their fundraiser here.