Laois boy and loyal dog raise over €9,000 on Christmas charity walk

A PORTLAOISE boy and his loyal dog have completed a Christmas Eve charity walk, raising over €9,000 for Irish Dogs for the Disabled.

Reilly Kinahan, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and autism, bravely finished the longest walk of his life this morning, with the help of his stability assistance dog Miller.

The determined 12-year-old overcame pain and tiredness to reach the 3km finish line, cheered on by his proud family and friends.

It is an amazing achievement for Reilly and Miller, who had a target of €2,000 when the fundraiser began. By Christmas Eve, the total reached an incredible €9,260, with donations still pouring in.

Thanking everyone who supported them, Reilly’s mother Yvonne Curtin said: “We clocked a time of 43 mins, which is outstanding. Reilly’s legs are sore and tired, but I couldn't be prouder of him.” 

The group led by Reilly and Miller left the Make & Mark in Fairgreen at 10am and travelled along the Mountmellick road, before turning on to the Ballyfin Road and returning to the finish line at Make & Mark. People generously contributed to a bucket collection along the route and encouraged Reilly and Miller every step of the way.

It was a courageous and thoughtful fundraiser for Irish Dogs for the Disabled, which provided Reilly with his beautiful black Labrador three years ago. Before Miller arrived, Reilly was unable to keep his balance when walking and suffered regular falls. Now the devoted duo walk 1km every day and falls are thankfully rare.

A pupil at the Aoibhneas autism unit in Scoil Bhríde NS, Reilly generously wanted to give something back to the charity that changed his life. Founded in 2007, the charity provides highly trained assistance dogs free of charge to children and adults with physical disabilities.

The iDonate fundraising page ‘Reilly & Miller’s 3km walk for awareness and vital funds’ will remain open until 8 January 2025.

https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/ReillyMillersWalk