Meet Our Volunteers

 Jacinta Roche, Enniscorthy, Co Wesxford

An interview

How do you support the Irish Heart Foundation? How many years?
I have supported the Irish Heart Foundation by organising Happy Heart Weekend and the Church gate collections in Enniscorthy. I have been organising Happy Heart Weekend for the past 10 years now, and the Church gate collections for the past 2 years. My dad died from a massive heart attack 15 years ago. He was only 67. He was a fantastic man and because of this, it encouraged me and my family to give something back.

What does this entail?
Well, my family and I are involved in the GAA and I would know a lot of people in Wexford. I get the local ICA, Active Retirement, Youth Clubs, schools, family and friends involved…and anyone else that I can get my hands on to help for Happy Heart Weekend!  For the church gate collections in Marshelstown, Castledockrel and  Enniscorthy I heavily rely on my four little treasures, Megan (12), Oisín (10), Cahil (8 ) and Clodagh (8 ) who are well able to shake a bucket. They take after their mother I suppose!

Why do you think the cause is so worthwhile?
I have great belief in the Irish Heart Foundation and always have. They do fantastic work and I know that in some way, my contribution is making a difference and is helping to reduce premature death and disability from heart disease and stroke not only in Enniscorthy but in Ireland.

What do you like best about volunteering with us?
I love meeting Tracy (I.H.F Regional Manager) for coffee! (laughs) But on a serious note, I get a great sense of satisfaction at the end of it all and I couldn’t do it without the support of my volunteers – they are out on their own and they bring a great buzz to Enniscorthy during Happy Heart Weekend! We have a great laugh altogether, while doing something that’s very worthwhile.

Kathleen Wolfe, Midleton, Co Cork

I have been a Happy Heart Weekend Coordinator for over 12 years. Each year I liaise with the schools and shops and double check bookings before the event. I also make sure to chat with the local Gardai to make sure they are aware of the collection. The local launch is always a great opportunity for us to get together over a cup of tea and prepare. I think it's very important that the volunteers understand where the money is to be spent and the difference it makes.

Jim Furlong, Arklow, Co Wicklow

I had a bypass in 2001 and have volunteered with the Irish Heart Foundation since. We have a team of 40 volunteers in Arklow, most of whom I recruited through personal contacts, family and friends. Over Happy Heart Weekend we maintain a high profile with the hearts and the people of the town are always generous.