An innovative charity event, “Walking on Fire for Dad” is being organised in June by the son and daughter of two Parkinson’s sufferers from Fermanagh.

Brendan Lilley and Eugene Corrigan, both from Enniskillen, are the inspiration for the firewalk, which is being arranged by Brendan’s daughter Nuala and Eugene’s son Mark in support of Parkinson’s Support Fermanagh.

“All monies will go towards Parkinson’s Support Fermanagh sufferers and carers,” indicated Nuala, the local group’s Chairman, who points out that the charity’s entire income is based on fundraising.

Both Brendan and Eugene are members, and the entire group is giving its full support to the initiative. The men have a long friendship spanning many years, and Eugene, who was a joiner, put the roof on Brendan’s house 34 years ago!

Nuala explains that Parkinson’s affects the muscles of the body and signs would be speech, walking and body tremors.

“It is a progressive disease usually,” said Nuala, who added that it puts limitations on life, depending on its severity.

“Mark approached me about the idea of a firewalk and I felt it was something different, innovative and new,” she said.

She points out that one aspect of Parkinson’s is its effects on the ability to walk, and she feels the firewalk highlights “that we are able to take up such a challenge.” Despite this, she says that “a number of Parkinson’s sufferers have expressed an interest in being able to walk the fire.” She adds: “That will depend on each individual and they will be assessed by Firewalking Ireland.” Among those keen to become involved in the venture are Brendan, a Parkinson’s sufferer for about six years, and Eugene, who has been a sufferer for around two years. “Walking on Fire for Dad” steps into action at Enniskillen Rugby Football Club on June 13, which is the same evening as Enniskillen 10K.

Altogether they are looking for 100 people to take up the firewalk challenge, which Nuala and Mark both plan to complete. Ninety-eight brave people are being sought to join them, and to date, they have around 30 participants.

Arrangements are being made for a barbeque and other activities and there will be the use of the facilities in the Rugby Club following the firewalk. “Each person who wants to walk has to raise £100 in sponsorship,” said Nuala. Sponsorship forms are available from Nature’s Choice, Enniskillen or by contacting Nuala, c/o Nature’s Choice, telephone 028 66328993; Mark on 07980988338; or Myrtle Hemphill, Secretary of Parkinson’s Support Fermanagh on 028 68622009.

People can also donate online at https://mydonate.bt.com/events/walkonfire, stating who they are sponsoring.