‘The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native’: New Memoir Supports Wicklow Cancer Services
A new memoir written by a local resident is turning a personal history into a lifeline for healthcare services in County Wicklow. ‘The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native’, authored by David Harrington, was recently launched at Clermont House in Rathnew, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting cancer services across the county.
A Life of Service and Science
The memoir provides a detailed reflection of David Harrington’s life and career spanning seven decades. Harrington, who spent a significant portion of his professional life as a Senior Executive Chemist at Wicklow County Council, uses the book to chronicle his journey from his early years in Coolacork and Ballinteskin to his education at De La Salle College and Holy Rosary School in Wicklow.
Beyond personal anecdotes, the book offers a broader perspective on the evolution of Irish industry. Harrington specifically explores the increasing importance of environmental protection legislation and the influence of the European Union on these regulatory developments.
Community Support at the Launch
The official launch event brought together family, friends, and local representatives. Facilitated by Eoin Naughton, Manager of the Clermont Screen Hub, the evening featured remarks from Graham Richmond, Cathaoirleach of the Wicklow Municipal District. Richmond delivered a tribute to Harrington’s career contributions to environmental protection on behalf of Tánaiste and Wicklow TD Simon Harris.
The charitable nature of the project was further emphasized by Dave Harrington Junior, a presenter and Programme Director with East Coast FM, who spoke regarding the publication’s goal to fund vital local health resources.
Funding Local Cancer Care and Hospice Services
The proceeds from the memoir are earmarked for cancer support services throughout County Wicklow and the Wicklow Hospice. These funds supplement ongoing community efforts to provide essential care for patients and their families.
The book’s launch is closely linked to the 15th Annual Wicklow Wide Coffee Morning hosted by East Coast FM. This community initiative has a strong track record of philanthropy, having raised more than half a million euros in previous years to support local cancer services.
How to Purchase the Memoir
For those wishing to support the cause and read Harrington’s reflections, ‘The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native’ will be available for purchase on April 24th. The book will be sold at various Wicklow Wide Coffee Morning venues across the county.
Broader Charitable Initiatives by East Coast FM
The support for cancer services in Wicklow extends beyond the memoir and the annual coffee morning. East Coast FM regularly organizes fundraising drives, such as the Step Up For Cancer event, which typically runs from April 1st to April 8th to raise vital funds for the Wicklow Hospice and regional cancer support networks.
- The Book: ‘The Odyssey of a Wicklow Native’ by David Harrington.
- The Cause: All proceeds benefit Wicklow County cancer services and the Wicklow Hospice.
- Availability: Available April 24th at Wicklow Wide Coffee Morning venues.
- Themes: Personal history, Irish industrial development, and EU environmental legislation.
By blending personal memoir with community philanthropy, this initiative ensures that the legacy of a local professional contributes directly to the health and wellbeing of the Wicklow community.