Stars of sport and fashion back Mark’s Wish to Walk

A host of leading designers and sports stars have rowed in behind a fundraising effort to support one family in their efforts to fulfil a three year old boy’s dream – by helping him to walk.

The family of Mark Dolan from Ahascragh were told he would never walk – but the brave boy has already confounded the medical experts.

Three-year-old Mark Dolan

Mark Dolan was born with a motor delay which primarily affected his lower extremities, but he took his first-ever steps after successful pioneering surgery in the US. It was an emotional occasion for parents Fidelma and Kevin, who were told he would be confined to a wheelchair for life. They were determined to explore every possibility for their little son – and they are now home from Missouri after successful surgery.

A major fundraising initiative is ongoing to ensure Mark gets the best possible treatment and aftercare. And now Galway’s world famous milliner, Philip Treacy, has designed a hat which will be among a plethora of prizes at a massive auction which is taking place in the village this Sunday. The proceeds of this will go towards the intensive therapy that Mark will receive over the next two years at a clinic in Limerick.

Apart from the specially commissioned Philip Treacy hat, there are designer pieces from Niall Tyrrell – and for the sports enthusiasts, JP McCoy has donated his riding jodhpurs; there are signed Galway and Mayo jerseys; a signed rugby ball from Robbie Henshaw and a signed Manchester City football.

There are also ponies, ewe lambs, trailers of turf and weekends away – all going under the hammer at Mark’s Massive Auction in Ahascragh Parish Hall today (Sunday).

Prospective buyers who cannot attend the auction on the day can make a pre-auction bid to any of the committee members or by phoning chairman Seamus Concannon on 087 2191936 – or on the dedicated Facebook page.

There are over 120 items going under the hammer in total and the auction commences at 2pm sharp, with refreshments and children’s entertainment to ensure something for all the family.