Hi Everyone,
On Saturday, the 22nd of January I attended the Fourth Annual Cliona Ring Foundation Commemorative Night which took place in Bulgaden Castle, Co. Limerick .
The Cliona Ring Foundation was set up in 2007 by Brendan and Terry Ring following the loss of their daughter, Cliona. Cliona was diagnosed with an inoperational brain tumour at a very young age and over the following years, Brendan and Terry met numerous families who were suffering financially as well as having very sick children. As a result, Brendan and Terry created the Cliona Ring Foundation to support the families of children with life-threatening illnesses with their non-medical expenses.
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| Samantha Long with Terry & Brendan Ring |
Saturday night marked the fourth year of the charity’s existence and the local community’s night of remembrance for Cliona. The theme of the evening was "Transformation" and reflected how Cliona has transformed the lives of her parents, her community and, of course, all of the people the foundation has helped.
The highlight of the evening was meeting the "Operation Transformation" team of locals who underwent a weight loss and exercise regime for the previous three months under the guidance of nutritionalist Anna Gleeson and fitness instructor Brendan Bourke in order to raise funds for the Cliona Ring Foundation. In total, they lost an impressive 5 stone 12.5 lbs!
The highlight of the evening was meeting the "Operation Transformation" team of locals who underwent a weight loss and exercise regime for the previous three months under the guidance of nutritionalist Anna Gleeson and fitness instructor Brendan Bourke in order to raise funds for the Cliona Ring Foundation. In total, they lost an impressive 5 stone 12.5 lbs!
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| Operation Transformation Team & nutritionist Anna Gleeson |
The night also featured special guests in the form of local sporting stars the Bruff Rugby team who recently won the Munster Senior Cup and who were presented with a plaque, the Bruff Rose Eibhlín O'Sullivan and Hurling stars. The MC on the night was Tom Tierney, a trustee of the organisation. NightFall provided entertainment and there was a raffle with sixty-five prizes up for grabs, including a family trip to EuroDisney, as well as quizzes for the many children present to get involved in.
I had an absolutely fantastic evening being welcomed into the community that so loved Cliona, despite the fact that I unfortunately did not know her. What I do know is that she was an incredible and inspirational person who has made a difference to so many people's lives. I would like to thank Brendan and Terry for inviting me to what has to be one of the most touching occasions I have ever experienced.
Until Next Time,
Samantha (Sami) Long
Miss United Nation Ireland 2010
Miss United Nation Europe 2010
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| Bruff Rugby Team Presentation |
I had an absolutely fantastic evening being welcomed into the community that so loved Cliona, despite the fact that I unfortunately did not know her. What I do know is that she was an incredible and inspirational person who has made a difference to so many people's lives. I would like to thank Brendan and Terry for inviting me to what has to be one of the most touching occasions I have ever experienced.
Until Next Time,
Samantha (Sami) Long
Miss United Nation Ireland 2010
Miss United Nation Europe 2010
