Cian Hennessy from Togher, who is a dedicated Cork City FC supporter and a client at the Crann Centre along with Cork City FC players Tunde Owolabi, Kevin Custovic, Heidi Mackin and Ellie O’Brien at the launch of Crann’s Walk n’ Roll. Photo: Brian Lougheed

It’s time to Walk'n'Roll

By Marguerite Kiely

A Cork-based charity is gearing up for its third annual Walk’n’Roll fundraiser, which aims to raise €100,000 to support people with neuro-physical disabilities and their families.

The Crann Centre which provides life-changing solutions for those living with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, osteogenesis imperfecta, stroke and other neuro-physical disabilities, is encouraging people to walk, run, roll, push or pedal 5km between Thursday 8 June 8 and Sunday 11 June to raise vital funds for their services.

Cork City FC has joined forces with Crann as a charity partner and will be working closely with the centre throughout the season.

The football club's superfan and Walk n’Roll Ambassador Cian Hennessy will proudly take centre stage as the club mascot during the highly anticipated match against Dundalk at Turner’s Cross on Friday 9 June. The fixture will include a collection to support Crann, and City fans can further contribute by joining the Cork City FC JustGiving team page.

Since its establishment in 2018, Crann has supported over 380 families from Cork, Kerry, and across Munster. Their team of professionals, including nurses, therapists, and counsellors, design personalised care plans for each individual.

Padraig Mallon, Chief Executive of Crann, said: “Demand for our services is continuing to increase which is why this fundraiser is so important to us. Funds raised during 2022 went towards our new accessible playground, an incredible space for families to enjoy and play together.”

Other facilities available include the Impact Hub co-working space for professionals with disabilities, and Conservation at Crann, a wheelchair-accessible conservation area.

Hannah O'Sullivan, a Walk n'Roll Ambassador, said: "Walk n'Roll is a fantastic way to stay active within the community and raise vital funds. The Crann Centre has had a positive impact on my life.”

To sign up or learn more, visit Cranncentre.ie/walknroll.