Glinsk event raises over €17,000 for Irish Heart Foundation
A fundraiser event for the Irish Heart Foundation was held in early July in Glinsk in memory of the late Michael Tiernan. Picture shows Marcella Gemmell, patient service co-ordinator Ireland West (centre), accepting a cheque in the sum of €17,025.86 from event organisers Marie Tiernan and Aisling Fitzmaurice in Dowd’s of Glinsk. Full picture, left-to-right, front: Marie Tiernan, Marcella Gemmell and Aisling Fitzmaurice. Centre row, from left: Larry Tierney, Jane Sypher, Rachel Thompson, Jackie Sharkey, Seán T. Kelly and Brian Neilan. Back row, from left: Alita Neilan, Bernie Kelly, John Griffin and Dolores Dowd. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin
There was music, laughter and more than a few cowboy hats in Dowd’s Pub, Glinsk, when the family and friends of the late Michael Tiernan gathered to present over €17,000 to the Irish Heart Foundation in his memory.
The presentation marked the success of Tash’s Hoedown, a country-themed fundraiser born out of grief, friendship and a determination to honour a man remembered for his kindness, humour and deep love of all things country.
The idea came from Michael’s sister Marie and family friend Aisling during one of their regular Thursday nights watching First Dates Ireland. They knew they wanted to do something for the Irish Heart Foundation. Almost immediately, the answer felt obvious: a hoedown for Michael, complete with music, horses, cowboy hats and the spirit of the country life he loved.
Behind the theme was a much more personal story. Aisling explained that Michael was “country through and through”, but that his life had also included a brave journey with heart issues.
“His passing came as a shock to the entire community. Michael was someone everyone could rely on, always there for a chat, always willing to lend a hand and always looking out for others,” said Aisling.
For those closest to him, Tash’s Hoedown became more than a night out. It became a way to keep Michael’s generosity alive and to turn heartbreak into help for others.
“In many ways, even in his passing, Michael is still helping people,” said Aisling.
In the weeks leading up to the event, there was emotion, determination and plenty of humour. From decorations to outfits, every detail added to what Aisling described as the magic and madness of bringing the night to life.
When the evening finally arrived, the support was overwhelming. The room filled with music, laughter and a shared sense of purpose as friends, neighbours and supporters came together for Michael and for a cause that mattered deeply to his family.
“It was more than just a fundraiser, it was a tribute, a celebration and a reminder of the strength of community,” said Aisling.
“Together, we are giving hope, improving recovery, and helping to build healthier communities, but we cannot do this without these vital fundraisers,” she said.
Accepting the cheque Marcella Gemmell from the Irish Heart Foundation thanked the Tiernan family for choosing the Irish Heart Foundation as the charity for the fundraiser, as well as the organisers, those who donated spot prizes and auction items, and everyone who attended or contributed.
“Michael was someone who helped people every day and this fundraiser will be his legacy to keep doing so in the future,” said Ms Gemmell.
The donation comes as the Irish Heart Foundation marks its 60th anniversary. For six decades, the organisation has worked to save lives and improve the lives of people affected by heart disease and stroke.
“We support patients and their families, provide vital education and prevention programmes, fund lifesaving research, and campaign for better heart health services across Ireland,” said Ms Gemmell.
For Michael’s family and friends, the cheque presentation in Dowd’s Pub was a proud and emotional reminder of what can happen when a community rallies together.
“It was a fantastic night. It is proof that community spirit is powerful and that when people get together, so much can be achieved.”
