Charity to form human chain on mountain

Pictured at the launch of the challenge were John Drummey, general manager, Kerry Mental Health Association, Orla and Seán Drummey, Mags Keogh, manager, Ross Café, Killarney and TJ O’Connor, MTU Kerry.
Picture: Domnick Walsh

The Kerry Mental Health Association has launched its first human chain mountain challenge walk to the top of Strickeen in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney.

It will commence at 9.00am on Sunday, October 8 and walkers are invited to register at https://kerrymentalhealth.ie/human-chain-challenge to join the human chain at the top for a fun and colourful show of support for people with mental health challenges, their families and carers in Kerry.

General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said the event will take place two days before World Mental Health Day and it will be the first in a series of annual walks of a similar nature throughout the county.

“A key aspect of our 2024 to 2027 strategy, which is being developed, is to have the necessary funds to roll-out of free and affordable educational activities aimed at ensuring society is better informed about how to take care of its mental health,” he said.

As the land is privately owned, advance registration is necessary with every walker receiving a receiving a branded bandana to be worn for the official human chain challenge drone picture. The registered walkers will need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, children must be accompanied by responsible adults and dogs are not permitted. Car-pooling is also recommended as limited parking spaces will be available.

In the interest of safety, the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team will be on 24-hour call and the Killarney Order of Malta will be on site at the foot of the mountain to provide first aid assistance if required.

Kerry Mental Health Association supports the Leave No Trace campaign and will be encouraging all participants to leave Strickeen n in the spotless condition that they found it.

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