Family Carers Ireland, the national charity dedicated to supporting family carers, has announced the launch of its 'Heart of Gold' national fundraising campaign which takes place on Thursday 13th June and coincides with National Carers Week from June 8th – 14th. This fundraising campaign aims to urgently raise vital funds for the organisation's critical supports and services while also raising awareness about the challenges faced by family carers throughout the country.
Rosemary Kratschmar, a devoted mother of four from Walkinstown, Dublin, is lending her support to the campaign. Alongside her husband Siegi and daughter Stephanie, Rosemary cares for their son Sammy, who lives with Down Syndrome, hearing loss, epilepsy, sleep apnoea, and ADD. Over the years, Rosemary has tirelessly fought to secure proper medical care, supports, and services for Sammy.
Reflecting on the support needs for families like hers, Rosemary shared a heartfelt message: "It truly does take a village to raise a child, and that couldn’t be more true for a child with special needs. The journey is long and sometimes lonely, and no one should have to navigate it alone.
“Having the support of the community and services like those provided by Family Carers Ireland not only helps us care for Sammy with love and dignity, but also reminds us that we are part of a larger family that understands and shares in our challenges and triumphs. This is why every bit of support from the 'Heart of Gold' campaign is so vital—it helps sustain not just the practical assistance we rely on, but also the community that lifts us up every day."
Eileen Aherne, National Fundraising Manager for Family Carers Ireland said “Our 'Heart of Gold' campaign is vital, shedding light on the unwavering commitment of the hundreds of thousands of family carers across Ireland who provide indispensable care to their loved ones every day. Funds raised throughout the month of June will directly support vital services, such as our National Freephone Careline, counselling, respite care, and local drop-in centres. Additionally, the campaign will help provide peer support groups, training sessions, and carers' forums, which help to ease the isolation often felt by family carers. These services go beyond mere support; they are lifelines for those selflessly committed to caring for others."
Mick Galwey, Irish rugby legend and Netwatch Brand Ambassador said: "As a former rugby player, I've experienced firsthand the importance of teamwork, dedication, and supporting one another through tough times. Similarly, family carers demonstrate these qualities every day as they selflessly care for their loved ones, often facing immense challenges with resilience and compassion.
“Family Carers Ireland's 'Heart of Gold' campaign deeply resonates with me because it highlights these often overlooked carers in our communities, who epitomise selflessness by dedicating themselves to their loved ones every day. It's an honour to stand with them and champion their cause."
‘Heart of Gold’ encourages the public to support family carers by purchasing a Heart of Gold Pin from volunteers, signing up for the 50 miles in June Challenge, or making a donation on the Family Carers Ireland website www.familycarers.ie Every contribution helps ensure that family carers like Rosemary receive the necessary supports to care for their loved ones safely and maintain their own wellbeing.
For more information or to donate, please visit familycarers.ie or contact our National Freephone Careline.
