Galway performance psychologist Marguerite Tonery is to undertake a marathon 1,000km cycle in New Zealand in order to raise funds for the IRFU Charitable Trust.
The cycle will take place on the South Island between September 19 and October 1. The IRFU Charitable Trust supports seriously injured rugby players who have suffered spinal injury leaving them paralysed and often in need of round the clock care.
Marguerite is no stranger to serious injury in a sporting event. When she was 16 she suffered serious head and spinal injuries as a result of a blow to the head in an All Ireland hockey final.
“This began a three year recovery period for me, in which I had little to no support in my recovery,” she said.
“It was one of the darkest periods in my life and I would never wish a serious injury on any sports player. For me, my injury struck at a point when all my friends began to socialise and have some fun. I was struggling to communicate. Support is needed and no person should be left in isolation.”
People wishing to support Marguerite can do so by calling 087 - 7749873 or logging onto www.mycharity.ie/events/marguerite_tonerys_event
