By Emma Ryan
A DONEGAL photographer who is set to promote the county in America has told how his dog Iggy helped save his life.
James O’Donnell from Falcarragh is well known throughout the county for his stunning images with his two dogs, Iggy and Frida.
This week, Iggy and Frida hit 50,000 followers on social media, with monthly views reaching half a million.
The success of the page has been 10 years in the making, but it started as James was recovering from mental health difficulties.
He has bravely spoke out about the struggles he has faced and how Iggy and photography saved his life.
Faithful friend – Iggy
Speaking to the Donegal News, James said, “After Iggy was trained up to enjoy social settings, we celebrated her first birthday with a maiden hike of Errigal and a few pints of Guinness in the Shamrock Lodge afterwards.
“As we enjoyed regular hikes around the Derryveagh Mountains which are part of the Falcarragh landscape, I decided to take some photos for myself only.
“I was enjoying this form of self-healing from depression and anxiety, so I wanted to document it in photography form.”
James told how he found himself at a low point in his life, but once his new pup Iggy came into his life, all changed.
“It was kind of the last chance I was giving myself. Look how far Iggy has brought me now,” said James.
James speaking out comes at a time when he received the heartbreaking news that Iggy has progressive Spondylosis in her spine and progressive arthritis.
Her weekly treatment of physio and laser, is to help her with pain and to encourage muscle growth, but unfortunately cannot reverse anything.
She has lost a lot muscle on her left rear side due to previous issues, operations and arthritis.
A heartbroken James said, “I’m watching her slowly succumb to it all, but I can’t do much more than what we’re already doing.
“There is no need for immediate concern though, what I’m doing here is inviting our followers to join myself and Iggy in this chapter of her life.
“Iggy is good, happy, eager, pain free, but her bones are a different story.
“So from here, like always, we continue to enjoy everything Iggy has to offer.
“I’ve been aware of this for a good while now and I’ve been adjusting to her needs,” said James.
Since its launch 10 years ago, Iggy has been front and centre of James’ photography.
The page has gone from strength to strength attracting thousands of followers and views while an annual calendar full of Donegal’s finest scenery has been sold all over the world.
However, despite the success, James said he has not always received positive support.
“The downside of this, which needs to be talked about, is, harassment, trolling, stalking, envy and begrudgery.
“I won’t dwell on this, but I’ve experienced all of the above and up to very recently.
“Iggy and my photography got me through it all, but it highlights the fickleness with the attitude to mental health.
“On top of being mostly shunned by tourism departments, that took it’s toll on me, when all I share is fun and informative content,” said James.
However, the negativity has not held him back as he is currently preparing for a trip of a lifetime in America to exhibit his work.
On Wednesday August 18, James will hold a weekend long exhibition of his work in Milwaukee City at the MKE IrishFest.
James made his debut at the event last year and is looking forward to another busy weekend of promoting Donegal.
“I exhibited at last year’s festival which happened to be the 41st MKE Irish Fest and I coincidentally brought 41 images – A tribute to my mother who died aged 41.
“It was a great experience and a first for me!
“I had never exhibited before, so going all the way to the US Midwest was very exciting!
“I met lots of festival goers and a significant number of Iggy fans, with some even flying in from different states!
“That really brought home the enormous support we get from the US, and Canada, I must add,” said James.
James will then fly to New York for a “week of business and a couple of social visits.”
James continued, “I would like to thank our sponsors, Silkie Irish Whiskey, The Rusty Mackerel and Sligo Southern Hotel, for their ongoing support, so these plans can happen,” said James.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)