Photos shown are from previous trips to Lourdes with Rise and Shine
Kilkenny/Carlow group 174, of The Rise and Shine trust are busily planning for their annual trip to Lourdes. One of the organisers is Kilkenny woman Jackie Cullen, told the Observer that each year at Easter they take young people with additional needs to Lourdes. “The trip is free and any of our funds raised goes towards their fare.”, explained Jackie.
To help raise some badly needed funds , a race night at Kilkenny greyhound track will take place on Friday September 18, with ten races taking place.
The group take 10 young people and each has ‘a buddy’ to support them. All who travel to look after those with a disability are Garda vetted. The group also consists of a priest, and a nurse. Jaclie also pointed out that all the ‘buddy/carers’ pay their own fare. Its a fun filled week and applications for the lourdes trip are on the Rise and Shine website. Those travelling can bask in the foothills of the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. Each year, millions worldwide visit the Grotto of Massabielle ( Grotto of Apparitions) where in 1858 the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.
Rise and Shine is an independent, self-funding, national, inclusive, and volunteer-led charity that provides supported pilgrimage holidays to guests with additional needs and respite to their families.
They strive to give guests and volunteers meaningful memories, the opportunity for personal growth, and an unforgettable life changing experience.
The group leader is Jackie Cullen and she can be contacted on Cullenjackie9@gmail.com
