Shane’s lough swim success

Shane’s lough swim success

26 October 2016

COMMUNITY pharmacist Shane O’Hare braved the cold waters of Strangford Lough last weekend to raise money for two lifesaving defibrillators.

The 40 year-old’s ambitious fundraising initiative to swim from Portaferry to Strangford raised £4,500 and it is hoped the defibrillators will be in place within the next few weeks outside Strangford pharmacy and close to Ballycotton Cottages in Kilclief.

Shane’s efforts were supported by local people and Downpatrick Lions Club which donated the defibrillator that will be located in Kilclief and he is delighted he was able to raise so much money thanks to the generosity of others.

Shane said as a community pharmacist he is well aware of the needs of Strangford and the surrounding area where cardiac events are not uncommon and quick access to a defibrillator can be the difference between life and death.

Just after noon last Saturday, Shane waded into the water at the ferry slip in Portaferry to begin his swim which coincided with low tide and he completed the 800 metre crossing in 21 minutes and six seconds.

A 100-strong crowd was waiting at the jetty in Strangford and as Shane emerged from the water he was greeted by loud cheers from well-wishers.

“The swim was everything I expected it to be,” the pharmacist said afterwards. “I knew I had a 30 minute window to get across and want to thank Andrew Steenson who was in a boat beside me and kept me on course as the wind was making it hard to stay straight.”

His preparation for the event, which included clocking up the miles at the Down Leisure Centre swimming pool, paid off and while Shane set himself a target of £2,000 he more than doubled that.

“I was swimming against a prevailing wind which changed direction halfway across the lough which started whipping up the waves,” he explained. “The waves were pretty significant but I knew I had to keep going and there were no jelly fish or other obstacles along the way.

“The current kept turning me around but I kept going and was delighted to reach Strangford. I was really pleased with my time and as I approached the finish I could not believe so many people had turned out to support me.”

Shane said there was a great cheer as he climbed out of the water and admitted he was delighted with the reception he received.

“I am thrilled to have raised so much money which will buy one defibrillator and the special casing it is housed in and a second casing for Kilclief.  As a result of the generosity of Downpatrick Lions Club, we can ensure there will be a defibrillator in Kilclief which I am pleased about.

“Some of the money will be used to fund defibrillator training sessions for local people who will be able to use the lifesaving devices in an emergency situation. Details of the sessions will be confirmed shortly.”

The pharmacist has also thanked the many people who supported his fundraising swim, including Teresa Avington who raised £350 through a raffle, St Joseph’s Primary School in the village which donated £160 and Strangford Football Club which donated £100.

Shane added: “I cannot thank everyone enough for their generosity. I was delighted to be able to raise so much as a result of the kindness of many, many people. The provision of these devices will make such a difference.”