The South East Mountain Rescue Association (SEMRA) charity has said it is 'deeply humbled' by the generosity of Gillian Ryan's family following a significant donation of money.
Gillian, a 37 year old mother of two, died tragically while she was out running in the Comeragh Mountains two months ago.
The Tipperary woman's body was found in a steep gully above Coumshingaun lake by rescue teams following a two-day multi-agency search operation, led by SEMRA.
A fundraiser launched by her husband Conor and involving Olympic runner Sonia O'Sullivan raised more than 27 thousand euro.
A spokesperson for the voluntary body said the support was appreciated:
“The generosity of Gillian’s family and friends at such an extremely tough, sad and challenging time is deeply humbling.
"We do what we can to help people where we can and this will help us to continue to do that wherever it is needed.”
SEMRA received a significant donation from the Gillian Ryan Fundraiser. The generosity of Gillian’s family & friends at such a tough, sad & challenging time is deeply humbling. We do what we can to help people where we can & this will help us to do that wherever it is needed. pic.twitter.com/zTlgIpx7q9
— SE Mountain Rescue (@SE_Mount_Rescue) June 13, 2021
“Thanks to everyone that supported and raised money and awareness for this fundraiser and for Semra over the last few weeks.
“Thanks also to Coast Guard Rescue 117, gardaí, the National Ambulance Service, Search and Rescue Dog Association [Ireland], Civil Defence Ireland and the many Mountain Rescue Ireland teams and local groups and businesses that played vital and invaluable roles in the search and recovery operation for Gillian.
“From talking to family and friends, we know that Gillian was a very giving person and supported and raised money for many valuable causes. Gillian took part in our last annual fundraiser, the Long Way Round in Clonmel in 2019. May Gillian rest in peace”
