By Dionne Meehan

A NEWTOWNCUNNINGHAM family, who experienced an unimaginable loss almost seven years ago, is preparing to give back to the community that supported them through their darkest days.

In November 2018, the Gallagher family’s world came crashing down when their beloved son and brother, Barry Gallagher, took his own life.

Barry, pictured right, who was the son of Shaun and Mary Gallagher, was just like any other 23-year-old.

He had a big interest in cars and GAA, and loved nothing more than a night out with his friends.

Now, as what would have been Barry’s 30th birthday approaches, the family want to give back to those who supported them through their darkest days and are organising a charity cycle event.

A picture of the late Barry Gallagher on his father’s bike with the inscription ‘I will carry you with me always until I can hold you again’.

With his passing coming unexpectedly and in the mouth of Christmas in 2018, Barry’s sister Danielle Kearney reflected on the difficult time her family went through.

“It was a very tough time for everyone in my family,” she told the Donegal News.

“He was just a normal 23-year-old in our eyes.”

Barry’s sudden passing sent shockwaves through the close-knit village of Newtowncunningham, deeply affecting members of his beloved GAA Club Naomh Colmcille, of which he had been a dedicated member throughout his life.

Coming to the family’s aid in their time of need, the club put every support imaginable in place, from directing traffic at Barry’s wake to opening the doors of their clubhouse to any members in need of a friendly face.

Barry would have turned 30 this month and on Sunday, August 17, his father Shaun will embark on a gruelling 100km cycle from Co Sligo to Newtowncunningham in a bid to raise funds for Naomh Colmcille CLG.

With local clubs serving as the beating heart of their communities, Danielle spoke of their importance in the lives of young people.

“Sport and being a part of a club organisation can have great benefits to mental health; it provides a sense of belonging by uniting individuals,” she said.

“You rarely saw Barry without a Naomh Colmcille top, half-zip or hat, he wore his colours proudly.”

Shaun Gallagher will undergo a gruelling cycle from Co Sligo to Newtowncunningham to raise funds for Naomh Colmcille.

Barry’s father first took up cycling during the pandemic, but this journey will be his most challenging yet.

Setting off from Cliffoney, Co Sligo, Shaun will be making stops in Donegal Town, Drumkeen and Manor, before crossing the finish line in Newtowncunningham.

Fuelled by the memory of his son, and the support of seven other cyclists, he is determined to keep going, no matter how tough it gets.

If you wish to make a donation you can do so via: https://gofund.me/b6365154