Galway graduate’s plea for help in earthquake-stricken Nepal

An NUI Galway graduate at the heart of this week’s devastation in Nepal has issued a heartfelt appeal for help for the orphaned children she cares for in a village three hours from Kathmadu.

Dr Melanie Hennessy, who graduated in medicine from NUI Galway, used the last of her phone battery to contact colleagues at the university to appeal for emergency aid donations.

And her plea has motivated the current student crop to fundraise during their exam week for a charity that holds a special place in the college’s hearts since it was established by Dr Hennessy seven years ago.

A native of Cloughleigh, Co Clare, Dr Hennessy first volunteered in Nepal after her Leaving Certificate and was inspired to set up Draoícht Nepal, an NUI Galway based student-run charity.

Since its inception in 2008 the society has sent over 100 volunteers to work in orphanages and schools in one of the world’s poorest countries.

Dr Hennessy currently dedicates her time to orphaned, disadvantaged children in the village of Talamarang of the Sindhupalchowk district, situated about three hours from the capital Kathmandu.

“Namaste from Nepal, thank you all for your concerned messages but, apart from being slightly ‘shook’, me and the kids are doing fine”, her message read.

“Unfortunately everyone hasn’t been so lucky, with many in the village dead, including children. More than 90% of their houses are completely destroyed with everyone including us sleeping in the fields in makeshift huts (and in the rain).”

In her message Dr Hennessy raised concern over the quickly depleting food and medical supplies in the area which, due to its rural location, has not yet received aid.

“I’ve never asked directly for help before as I know many people have their own problems but we do not have enough resources and people are going to start dying from lack of food and basic medical help.

“I promise that all the money will be used to help feed, provide medicines and rebuild the buildings,” she said.

See full story in this week’s Connacht Tribune.