Kerry GAA star Aidan O'Mahony to conquer Camino De Santiago to raise vital funds for CRY Ireland as he asks public to join him

Kerry GAA star Aidan O'Mahony is asking the public to join him on a famous pilgrimage walk to raise vital funds for a heart charity.

CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) Ireland Ambassador Aidan is set to conquer the Camino de Santiago over seven nights from September 23.

CRY Ireland creates awareness of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) and inherited cardiac conditions and supports those who have been affected by these conditions through access to free cardiac assessments, bereavement counselling and family support programmes.

CRY also recently launched a new freephone helpline to offer a listening ear to those affected.

Aidan O’Mahony said: “The Camino offers an escape, and an opportunity to disconnect. It can be a great way to connect with nature but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and to re-focus on yourself while raising money for CRY at the same time.

"In 2019 when I led the team I could just see life-long friendships forming and was so moved by the stories I heard on the trip from those affected by Sudden Cardiac Death and how CRY has helped them. I am thrilled to be taking part again this year and would like for people to join me.

“The Camino is suitable for almost anyone and is as rewarding as it is challenging, so if you are looking for a new challenge in 2022, why not conquer the Camino!”

Aidan O’Mahony, CRY Ambassador and Trustee of CRY, Liam Herlihy prepare for the trip at Glanageenty Woods in Co. Kerry. They are asking people to join them on the Camino De Santiago trek on 23rd of September 2022 to take on a new challenge and support families affected. (Domnick Walsh)

Conquer The Camino: Aidan O’Mahony is calling on you to join him on the Camino to raise funds for CRY Ireland. Aidan O’Mahony, CRY Ambassador and Trustee of CRY, Liam Herlihy prepare for the trip at Glanageenty Woods in Co. Kerry. (Domnick Walsh)

Lucia Ebbs, CEO of CRY, added: "In previous years the trip has been a great opportunity for those that have been affected, to connect with one another and share experiences, and we are so excited to revisit the Camino and reunite after three difficult years.

"This fundraiser has been an incredible source of funds for CRY in helping us support those affected. This year funds raised will allow us to continue to support families affected by Sudden Cardiac Death through our screening and bereavement services and also support our Freephone service, The CRY Helpline.”

Joining Aidan on the trip is CRY Trustee Liam Herlihy, who lost his daughter Niamh to sudden cardiac death in 2011. She was only 21 at the time.

Since then, Liam and his family are screened regularly at the CRY Centre and do everything they can to support the charity.

Aidan and Liam are asking people to join them and help raise funds for CRY.

For more information or to register interest, visit cry.ie.