‘Your support and energy make all we do possible’

The Longford Westmeath Down Syndrome hosted a Christmas party for their 156 members on Sunday week last, December 15, in the Annebrook House Hotel.

Laura Drumm, branch chairperson, gave the welcoming address, in which she reflected on “the incredible work being done by our branch” and expressed “gratitude for the involvement and dedication of each of you”. Laura said that as a voluntary organisation, Down Syndrome Ireland depends on the commitment of members. “It is your support, time and energy that make everything we do possible. Without the hard work and contributions from parents, volunteers, and advocates like you, we would not be able to thrive. And we deeply appreciate everything you do.”

There have been some important developments at Down Syndrome Ireland this year, Laura told the gathering; at national level the organisation has a new constitution, a new parent CEO, and a member support team at the national office. A Longford Westmeath branch member, Martina Kelly, is on the board of Down Syndrome Ireland.

She said that one of the most significant programmes Down Syndrome Ireland has developed is the Speech Therapy Assistant, and the local branch is the beneficiary of a pilot programme that provides weekly speech therapy support to 25 children under the age of 12. “This is just one example of how, through collaboration, we’re able to access vital services that benefit our families,” said Laura.

“All the activities, achievements and events happen because you, our members, are involved. It is through your dedication and volunteerism that we continue to grow and succeed.

“I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have given your time, energy, and support this years. Whether you’ve been coordinating events such as swimming, cookery, and the book club, or whether you’ve been supporting us in behind the scenes roles, your work has been invaluable.

“I’d also like to express my gratitude to our outgoing committee members – Linda Fitzpatrick, Kevin Mahon and Martina Kelly – for their 16 years of hard work and dedication. Our new committee members: myself as chairperson, Anthony Carty as treasurer, Ann-Marie Hogg as secretary, and Martina Kennedy, assistant. “Kevin will continue to support us as we transition into our new roles, and we’re so grateful for his ongoing commitment.”

Laura was keen to emphasise that the organisation is only as strong as the involvement of its members. “As parents, we are the primary advocates for our children, and our collective efforts are what make a difference. By staying involved, educated, and connected, we can continue to ensure the best possible future for our children and families.

“We can all learn so much from each other. By networking, sharing our experiences, helping and supporting one another, we become a stronger and more resilient community. So, I ask everyone here to get involved, lend your support, and help us continue to build a thriving, voluntary, parent-led branch in Longford Westmeath and a strong national organisation.

“Together, we are stronger. And when we work together, we create a better world for our children.”

Down Syndrome Ireland offers webinars on topics such as the transition to school, behaviour management, puberty and employment opportunities, and is also involved in programmes that provide access to third-level education, like Latch On.

Through its charitable status and the national resources, as well as the fundraising donations efforts of members, the Longford Westmeath branch can offer bursaries for speech therapy and other therapies.

“Our young adults have raised funds, and we’ve had the privilege of visiting the Dáil, thanks to the efforts of Fintan Bray, and, of course, many of our members have participated in dance and drama programmes with Across the Boards and Barn Door Studios, showcasing their talents through successful stage performances.

“Over the last year, our branch has hosted meet-ups for our children, organised fun events like swimming and visits to Jungle Joe’s, cookery courses, and gardening workshops for our older members.

“We’ve also seen some remarkable achievements, including international swimming victories for Kevin Kennedy and David Hogg, and a leadership course completed by Anna Drumm and Fodladh Nyhan. David Corroon was honoured by McDonald’s in Mullingar for his dedication as their longest serving employee (16 years).

“Thank you once again for your unwavering support. I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year,” Laura concluded, as she added thanks to North Midlands Credit Union, the team at Millennium House, the Muiriosa Foundation, and in particular Natasha Walsh, support worker, and staff and day service adults, who organised a coffee fundraiser.