Help the Walsh family Glenbrohane, Co. Limerick.

The communities of Glenbrohane, Knocklong and surrounding areas are seeking your help for the Walsh family in their time of need. The family consists of Andrew (Dad), Betsy (Mum) and children (Rufus, Martha, Oisín, Brogan, Hughbert, Jasmine and Robyn).

Andrew comes from Knocklong Co. Limerick. His family owned a shop and bakery in the village for many years. In Glenroe he met a kindred spirit in Betsy Holmes who hails from Winchester. They married 29 years ago and together raised 7 children. They have lived happily in Glenbrohane for the past 17 years. Before moving to Glenbrohane, they lived in Knocklong, Co. Limerick.

Betsy riding her beloved horse, Tyler around Glenbrohane became a regular and familiar sight; one which has been sadly missed over the past few weeks. Betsy is known for her gentle easy-going manner, love of children, animals and art. She minded children for many other families in the area over the years and has had a positive influence on so many children as well as her own. The family are well known for generously donating their time and effort to many local clubs and charities, such as local GAA, Soccer and Rugby Clubs, Community Games, Church, School and Community. Betsy was very involved in the establishment and development of the Local Hub in Glenbrohane, and helped to build the Community Garden that is enjoyed by so many. She also promoted the space as a hub of art and crafts for children and led many artistic classes and activities there.

In 2007, Betsy and Andrew purchased their dream family home in Glenbrohane. Unfortunately, 2007 was the height of the Celtic tiger which featured sub-prime lenders and attendant high interest rates. The family have worked tirelessly to maintain the mortgage on the family home. Unfortunately increasing interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis made making ends meet a challenge and they were unable to keep paying the mortgage protection/life insurance policy.

7 weeks ago, the family received the devastating news that Betsy is terminally ill. It is impossible to understand the impact of that news, but it is made all worse by the reality that without Betsy they will no longer be able to meet the mortgage repayments. The family need to be able to spend what limited precious time they have left with Betsy without the worry of losing the family home looming on the horizon and tainting these important moments.

We would ask that you donate anything you can to this local family. Every donation will be greatly appreciated and will make a huge difference to the life of the Walsh family.