More than €1,100 has been raised for two important charities at a memorial barbecue held in memory of two much-loved men who died within months of one another.
The event took place at Glenview Park, Ballybofey, on 15th August in memory of Darragh McIntyre and John Meenan.
Ballybofey man Darragh died in June 2024 after suffering heart problems. He was just 32.
John, who was Susan Hanbury’s partner, had been closely involved in organising a memorial barbecue for Darragh in July 2024. That event raised €1,850 for Mental Health Ireland.
John was diagnosed with cancer in August 2024 and sadly passed away two months later at the age of 61. He was originally from Derry.
Susan, who was Darragh’s mother and John’s fiancée, has organised BBQs in their honour for the past two years.
The €1,120 raised will be split between the Irish Heart Foundation and Macmillan Cancer Support.
Susan thanked everyone who attended, donated or helped make the day possible.
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“Thank you so much to everyone who came and donated to make the day such a success,” she said.
She also thanked Lidl, Raitts, Mr G’s, SuperValu, Glenside Stores, Finn Valley Bistro, the Credit Union, Conkers, O’Hehirs Bakery and Finn Valley Pet Shop for their donations.
Susan had plenty of help from friends, family and local chefs.
Kathleen O’Brien and Mark Grogan prepared and cooked the food, with Deniesa O’Brien also helping to organise the barbecue. Katie O’Brien and Deniesa collected donations, while Jackie prepared the baked potatoes.
Geraldine Gallagher helped with posters, acted as MC and sold tickets. Clive organised the children’s games and Christine cut the grass.
Susan also thanked Lesley Hanbury McNeely for the handmade rag dolls donated for the raffle, Pat McNeely for the planters, and everyone who contributed spot prizes.
Neighbours helped with setting up and taking down the gazebos, while friends and family provided gazebos, chairs and tables.
Finn Valley and the Parish Centre also loaned chairs and tables for the event.
Susan extended her thanks to everyone who sent donations despite being unable to attend and to all those who contributed in any way.
See photos from the special day here:
