There are plans to establish a Pieta House facility in Westmeath in the coming months.
The news came as 65 cyclists stopped off in Mullingar last Saturday during the annual Pieta House Tomas Mulligan Memorial Cycle.
The group of cyclists pedalled 80 miles from Drimnagh in Dublin via Kildare, Meath, and north Westmeath, arriving at the Annebrook House Hotel on Saturday evening, before returning to Dublin the following day.
The man behind the cycle, Tom Mulligan, who lost his son to suicide several years ago, said the purpose of the cycle is to raise awareness of the supports offered by Pieta House.
“It’s not just about raising funds. We want to raise awareness that there is help available. You can walk into Pieta House or call them, and they provide a free service,” he explained.
It is hoped that the cycle will have raised up to €50,000, once all the funds and sponsorship are collected.
Tom also revealed that there are plans to open a Pieta House facility in the county in the near future.
“The idea is to spread the word and raise awareness in the area. The health services and Pieta House will look at setting up a centre. We are optimistic that we will get a centre in Westmeath in the next six to 12 months,” said Tom.
“The public were very welcoming in Mullingar. We got a great reception at the Annebrook, and GAA and sports clubs along the way were also very supportive, offering us refreshments. We would like to thank the Gardaí, ambulance workers, volunteers, and those who donated - every €2 or €5 we get goes straight to Pieta House.”
For more information and details of your nearest Pieta House facility, see www.pieta.ie
