Mitchelstown goes red for Happy Hearts
Throughout the month of May, The Irish Heart Foundation are hoping to raise half a million euro for research, resuscitation, patient information and support services and they are calling on people in Mitchelstown to give up a few hours of their time between May 9-11 to sell Happy Heart badges.
More than 750,000 patients, their families and members of the general public availed of the Irish Heart Foundation’s vital information services in 2012 and the charity expects this number to continue to grow in 2013.
Regional fundraising manager Anne Riordan, who came to launch the Happy Heart appeal in Mitchelstown, urged people to give up a few hours to volunteer, as their time will make a real difference.
“The reality is that every hour a life is lost to heart disease and stroke in Ireland, which means almost 10,000 lives are lost here annually. Each May, more than 3,000 volunteers around the country take to the streets and shopping centres of Ireland selling happy heart badges and the people around Mitchelstown are always great supporters of the campaign. I’m urging local people to join their local Happy Hearts team this May 9-11. It’s never too late to volunteer, even if you can only spare a couple of hours.”
Chief Executive of The Irish Heart Foundation, Barry Dempsey explained that 80% of deaths related to heart disease or stroke for people under the age of 65 could be prevented. He added that this is their biggest national fundraising event, so he is urging people to volunteer and be part of this worthy campaign.
To volunteer for the Happy Hearts Appeal collections this May 9-11, contact Diane Casey on 087-1478030. If you cannot volunteer, other ways to get involved during the month of May include organising a fundraising event or donating online at www.irishheart.ie/happyhearts. All support would be greatly appreciated.
Published:
Thursday 9th May 7:14pm
