Martin Vernon. Photograph by Eugene McCafferty on 07/12/2020
Letting a light shine for fellow survivors of rape
December 14, 2020
“MY NAME is Martin Vernon and I’m a survivor of rape.” The words that the Ennis man spoke on RTÉ radio last month have had a huge resonance. Since the programme, Martin has had contact from all over the world, as well as many donations to a fundraiser he has organised for Rape Crisis Midwest. They have supported him in coming to terms with an attack he suffered more than 50 years ago. This year, the organisation is facing a sharp drop in funds and a steep rise in demand.
Cllr Mary Howard, Mayor of Clare representing Rape Crisis Midwest and Mary Maloney fundraising Manager of Cahercalla Hospice.
An Achill-based artist has created a magical book celebrating native Irish trees and will donate the proceeds to charity.
100% of the proceeds of this new book will go to two charitable organisations – Rape Crisis Midwest and Cahercalla Hospice.
The book “Ancient Irish Trees” – A Reflective Journey through the year, by Alexandra Van Tuyll was officially launched this week.
The book takes the reader on the journey of 13 native Irish trees from spring through to winter, each season is accompanied by a poem from early Christian times.