Broadcasting students from the Institute of Technology, Tralee, have raised €616.00 in aid of the Saoirse Foundation, following their Keep ITT Secret Cine event. After six-weeks of intense preparation as part of a ‘Special Event Management’ module, the group of fourth year media students, co-ordinated by lecturers Feargus Dunne and Catherine Moylan, hosted a 1920’s style screening of the Oscar winning blockbuster, The Great Gatsby. The night, in association with Kerry Film Festival, was kindly sponsored by Fels Point Hotel and a number of other generous local businesses.    

Attendees were treated to live music from Tralee singer/songwriter, John Paul o’ Brien, a vintage-style candy cart and photo booth, as well as prizes for best dressed lady and gentlemen. The event raised much needed funds for the Kerry based charity. 

The Saoirse Foundation work tirelessly to support individuals affected by Battens Disease, in addition to promoting public awareness of the condition. The charity was established by Mary & Tony Heffernan after their daughter, Saoirse, was diagnosed with the condition in 2009. The organisation is also pursuing the development of Ireland’s 1^st respite centre for families of children with the rare disease, which will be called ‘Liam’s Lodge’; named after their son Liam, who also suffers from Battens.  The facility is to be located in Tralee, Co Kerry.

A cheque for €616.00 was presented to Helen Kelly, Development Manager with The Saoirse Foundation, on Monday 27^th April at the IT Tralee. Helen, who says she “speaks to the families everyday” stated how important fundraising initiatives like the Secret Cine are to the charity. She added “The more people that know about us, the more will use the services.” Liam’s Lodge will open its doors in 2018.