Asthma Society urging the business community to take the Icy Plunge
Rory O’Connor, aka Rory’s Stories, is calling for the business community to join him to take the Asthma Society of Ireland’s Icy Plunge challenge.
The Icy Plunge takes place on September 17, raising vital funds for the Asthma Society to help children with asthma spend less time missing out and more time enjoying childhood.
Rory is the Asthma Society’s Icy Plunge ambassador, and has had asthma since he was a child. Joining him on the day will be Paralympic sprinter and World Para Athletics Champion Orla Comerford.
The Asthma Society says that they both know from experience what the right support can mean for young people growing up with asthma.
Around one in ten children in Ireland have asthma, and the Asthma Society say that hospital visits and admissions among children with asthma rise during the winter, and particularly in September.
If the condition is left uncontrolled, it can interrupt a child's sleep, sport, play and education. Leaving parents worried about recognising the signs of an asthma attack and knowing what to do.
Rory O’Connor said: “I've had asthma for as long as I can remember. Growing up, the worry of having an asthma attack or not having my inhaler with me could stop me taking part in things other kids did. For thousands of kids around Ireland, that worry is part of their day-to-day life. “
He continued, “The Asthma Society is helping kids stay involved and get on with being kids. That's why I'm taking on the Icy Plunge for Asthma challenge. I would encourage everyone to rally their teams and raise funds to help young people live a happy, healthy, active life."
Orla Comerford, who is supporting the challenge in the lead-up to the event, said: “I know first-hand what it’s like to grow up with asthma, but I was fortunate to have good support and early intervention that helped me manage it and meant I didn’t have to miss out on sport or being active. That’s why I’m delighted to be getting behind the Icy Plunge for Asthma this year. Every euro raised helps the Asthma Society support children and their families, so that more children with asthma can enjoy the full, active and happy childhood they deserve. I’d encourage everyone to gather their team, sign up and take the plunge.”
Eilís Ní Chaithnía, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said: “Returning to school should be about children seeing their friends, joining teams and discovering what they enjoy and not being left sitting on the sidelines because of asthma. Children with asthma miss an additional 5-10 school days a year due to their condition.
“But with the right support, they can participate fully and live active, healthy lives. The Icy Plunge challenge allows work teams and brave solo participants to take on a memorable shared challenge while helping more families access the specialist advice, support and education they need. We are delighted to have Rory leading the plunge and Orla backing our call to businesses across Ireland.”