Mullingar brothers to lead 50 pharmacists in 230km cycle

Two Mullingar brothers, who are both pharmacists, are to lead up to 50 pharmacists from across Ireland on a Dublin to Galway cycle this Friday and Saturday, July 17 and 18.

John and Robert Keane of Keane’s Pharmacies, are organisers of ‘The Frontline Cycle’, which will cover a route of more than 230km – from Dublin to Galway (via Athlone) – in aid of First Fortnight, a mental health charity and art therapy service provider.

First Fortnight organises an arts festival every January and also provides an art therapy service for members of the homeless community.

The Irish Pharmacy Union’s IPU Review journal is the official media partner for the Frontline Cycle.

In 2011, the Frontline Cycle raised more than €9,000 for the Irish Cancer Society’s Action Prostate charity. More than €12,000 was raised for the same charity in 2013 as pharmacists again got on their bikes, this time to raise awareness of Ovarian Cancer.

Launching the event, Robert Keane said: “We’re really excited about this year’s cycle, which is already shaping up to be our largest event to date.

“As pharmacists, mental health is an area where we work closely with our patients every day and we are delighted to support First Fortnight and their aim to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Ireland.

“We’ve had huge support from sponsors over the years and this year is looking like our event will be even bigger with many sponsors on board already”.

David Keegan, co-founder/director of First Fortnight said the charity was delighted when John and Robert nominated First Fortnight as this year’s beneficiary.

“Pharmacists play a vital role in the mental wellbeing of people, providing help and advice. We were delighted when John and Rob told us they would like to show support for our cause in challenging mental health stigma through the arts and providing creative therapy to those in greatest need. The money raised will help fund a therapist to work with homeless clients for a six month period,” he stated.

The Frontline Cycle begins in Dublin’s Phoenix Park on Friday July 17 at 9am and will end in Galway on Saturday July 18.

To sponsor or donate visit firstfortnight.ie for more info.