THANK YOU FROM THE FRIENDS OF ST. ITA’S

John Collins, Chairman of Friends of St. Ita’s, staff and supporters making a presentation to Kay Moloney on her 93rd birthday. — Friends of St Itas Thank You Night at St Itas Community Hospital Ncw — Photo by George Daly

The committee and management of St Ita’s Community Hospital, Newcastle West, wish to thank sincerely all who contributed so generously during the past twelve months.
We held our thank-you get-together on Tuesday 12th December and it was much enjoyed by all who attended. As usual we were presented with a delicious selection of savouries, desserts and tea/coffee by hospital chef Eddie and his catering staff. Present were Maureen Kenneally, Loughill, and her group of friends who organise a cake sale each year in aid of the Alzheimer’s Unit. Unfortunately, Eamon Griffin, his wife Rosie and their Sunday morning walking group were unable to attend. This year Maureen and Eamon donated €2,050. Their total donations to date have now reached €11,850.
Teresa Doyle McMahon very kindly donated 50 CDs – A Touch of Class – totalling €500. We re-ordered extra CDs which are now available at reception in St. Ita’s Hospital, Newcastle West Book Shop and Tony Hayes Newsagent at €10 each – a lovely Christmas gift idea.
Benny Thade McCarthy was there too. Benny organised two very successful fundraising events towards the purchase of the new patient transport ambulance, assisted by two faithful friends, Josie Ahern and Kay Maloney; they raised €12,000, including a most generous donation of €1,000 from Tony Noonan and family’s Christmas lights. Sincere thanks to the community who contributed in any way to the Rambling House in Fr Casey’s GAA pavilion, Abbeyfeale and the dance in the Railway Bar, Abbeyfeale. The friends also ran a fundraising dance in the Devon Inn Hotel, which achieved €5,000.00. Sincere thanks also to all who contributed including our many sponsors.
John Devine, Manager of Newcastle West Golf Club, through whom we received €750.00 from Wings Golf Society, was unable to attend.
Patrick O’Brennan, a native of Glin but living in Dublin, was also unable to attend but very kindly donated €1,300.00, in appreciation of the wonderful care given to his dear mother Mary, now gone to her heavenly reward.
Finally, we very much appreciate all the donations, too numerous to mention, from many individuals in gratitude for the care they received during their stay in rehab or respite. Also, the families, relatives and friends who donated in memory of loved ones. May the Lord grant you all peace and consolation at this time and grant your loved ones eternal rest and peace. A special thank you, also, to all who contributed to the church gate collections in all the parishes throughout the year. It is, indeed, the wonderful generosity and ongoing support from the wide community of West Limerick and beyond, that has assisted greatly towards the current high standard of care and comfort of the residents and day patients of St. Ita’s.
We take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy and peaceful Christmas and many blessings in the year ahead.