Gerry and Theresa honoured for Irish Guide Dogs commitment

Two volunteers with the Midlands Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) have been honoured for their committment and dedication to the organisation.

At a special ceremony in Cork, two members of the Midlands Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs who, between them, have given over three decades of dedicated and exceptional voluntary service to the charity were presented with medals and certificates.

Theresa O'Reilly and Gerry McCann were highly praised in citations which were read out at the awards ceremony, while Munster and Ireland rubgy star and Young Offenders actor, Shane Casey, were also on hand in their roles as Guide Dogs Ambassadors, to present the worthy local recipients with their awards.

The citations for Theresa and Gerry were written by IGDB CEO Tim O'Mahony and the charity's Regional Development Officer, Chris Bennett.

Both award recipients were described as being “an intergral part” of the activities of the Midlands Branck, with Gerry McCann volunteering for 20 years, and Theresa O'Reilly being a volunteer for over 10 years.

Not only has Theresa O'Reilly been “absolutely tireless” in her work for the Irish Guide Dogs, but she is also the owner of three ambassador dog called Bumble, Pixie and Twinkle!

Among the tasks she undertakes for the charity at local level across the midlands are coordinating stock, social media and school visits from Offaly to Cavan and turning up “come rain or shine giving 100% effort to everything she puts her mind to” said her citation. She is “never afraid to give something a go” and has often provided great ideas for other Branches to follow, and she also actively participates in the national branch calls and is “always looking for ways to help improve things for the charity.”

Her commitment to the Irish Guide Dogs cause was described as “unwavering” and “an emotional part of who she is as a person.” and the charity said it was “very lucky” to have her as there is” no more energetic, committed, or passionate person than Theresa .”

Gerry McCann was honoured and recognised for his “long service, kindness and hard work” over the past 20 years, with his citation describing him as being “always happy to help out at collections” and giving “exceptional commitment” to the charity. “Well liked by his fellow volunteers and the public alike, Gerry embodies the values of the Irish Guide Dogs and we're delighted to recognise his long service, kindness, and hard-work.” said the charity.