After many months of hard work, the family of a well-known Co Fermanagh photographer and videographer have announced another weekend of memorial events to promote positive mental health.
The ‘Ray of Hope Memorial Weekend’ was first held last year and is organised by the McPhillips family from Newtownbutler in memory of their brother, son and uncle Michael (Mickey).
His body was recovered from the water at Galloon Road in Newtownbutler in the early hours of Saturday, November 21 2020.
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Mickey's unexpected passing left his home village and much further afield stunned and heartbroken.
After spending many years manufacturing kitchens and furniture for homes throughout counties Fermanagh, Monaghan and Cavan, Mickey turned to a career in photo/videography.
He established McPhillips Digital Media on Bridge Street in the border village and quickly became the go-to man for many people as well as community and press organisations.
He also produced many historical and social documentaries and was a proud supporter of both his local GAA team and his beloved Fermanagh.
Mickey's family have said their lives changed forever the day they lost him and there were no warning signs or clues ahead of the sudden and tragic death of such a popular local figure.
Now they want no other family to experience the pain and sadness they have all gone through since losing Mickey by helping promote positive mental health.
To mark what would have been Mickey’s 56th birthday on August 17, his family have organised the Mickey Macs Memorial Weekend, which takes place from August 12th-14th.
Once again it will celebrate the life and work of Mickey while also hoping to breaking down the barriers associated with suicide and mental health.
The line up is as follows:
Friday August 12th - At 7:30pm, the weekend is officially opened with a photographic exhibition in Newtownbutler Community Centre titled ‘Faces and Places’. A new collection of some of Mickey’s more recent prized photographs will be on display.
Saturday August 13th - The weekend continues with a series of Reflections of Hope in The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newtownbutler starting at 11am, with a fantastic line up of guest speakers sharing some poignant and important life stories and reflections along with important messages with regard to mental health.
Saturday concludes with a street concert with some very talented members of Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Eireann which will take place outside the community centre at 7:30pm.
Sunday 14th August - The long awaited annual walk begins at the bridge at Galloon Island at 1pm.
This will be immediately followed by the Newtownbutler Annual Tractor Run starting at the football pitch at 3pm with all proceeds going to Ray of Hope.
There will be entertainment on the day including face painting, music, animals and lots more to make a fantastic family day out.
The funds raised over the weekend will be used for local mental health services in the community.
Full details can be found on the Ray of Hope Facebook page.
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