SEPTEMBER 2024 Newsletter – Telling Our Stories

EASTERN REGION DAY OUT
By Jonathan, Grow Member, Eastern Region

We had a wonderful day in Hazel House nestled in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. It was a 'Goldilocks' day, not too hot or cold, but just right. John Farren was master of ceremonies and skillfully guided us through the events of the day. Getting the ball rolling, he welcomed us as part of the Grow family. First, he called on myself to say a few words on the newsletter. I thanked all Growers for their articles, poems and testimonies. I also mentioned that sometime in the near future we hope to go national with a hard copy newsletter on a bi-monthly basis. Two generous Growers offered to write their testimonies for the upcoming newsletters.

Thank you. Our stories give us hope and engender healing.

     















A few snaps from the wonderful day out. Thanks to our own Stephen Geary for capturing the event so beautifully.

Then two courageous Growers, John and Lorraine gave their stories in front of 55 people! They both spoke so honestly and from the heart. There is strength in vulnerability. We all empathised with their journeys from darkness to light and we were edified by their stories. We showed our gratitude with praise.

After the testimonies, the energetic walked further up the hill with its views of the city below. Others followed Gerry, the owner of the Centre and a longtime Grower, for a tour. First, we saw the garden allotment where Paschal and the other green fingered Growers’ plant and tend vegetables. I saw potatoes, kale and rhubarb amongst others. Then Gerry showed us an old-fashioned traditional traveller caravan that they reconstructed. I was struck by its beauty and colours. And how a whole family would live a life squeezed within. Next, we meet the animals. There was a sheep, some cheeky goats, and an alpaca - a South American animal that is a member of the camel family. We fed himself and the goats pieces of carrot. The alpaca was shy and the horse too. But the donkeys came to us so we could lavish our love on them. Next Gerry showed us the stone labyrinth and the bonfire area with a healthy fire ablaze.

Then we returned to the workshop where we assembled square candle holders and plaques with Grow wisdoms printed on them. All this was under the supervision of the Master Carpenter Gerry. Everyone enjoyed a generous and very delicious lunch.

We then returned to the function room for a cuppa and eagerly waited for the music to begin. And what a session it was! There was Eanna on the guitar, Gerry on the ukulele, and Derek on the violin. I was amazed at their talent. Gerry entertained us and encouraged Growers in the audience to sing and they did! I’m tone deaf so I marvelled at the ability and courage of my fellow Growers. Five o'clock came too soon and so we began to leave. People brought home some Grow merchandise and I was heartened to see only 3 newsletters left out of a batch of 90.

We would like to thank Gerry, Paschal, John, Patricia and all the Eastern Regional Team for their work in organising and running the event. And all the Growers who came along. Old friends met, and new friends made. A day to truly remember.

The day was full of warmth and excitement, with everyone at the branch pitching in to ensure the event ran smoothly. Customers and staff mingled over tasty burgers, and the raffle added an extra layer of excitement. The community atmosphere created a wonderful sense of togetherness, with everyone coming together for a common cause.

The highlight of the day was the generosity shown by both the customers and the staff of Chadwick’s. The branch was buzzing with positive energy, as participants wholeheartedly supported the fundraising effort. Every raffle ticket purchased, and every BBQ meal enjoyed contributed to the growing total, with over €400 going directly to Grow Mental Health. The funds raised from the event will help us continue to provide vital mental health services, including peer support groups, education, and community outreach.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Chadwick’s and all those who participated, donated, and made the day such a success. It was a wonderful reminder of the power of community, and we are honoured to support such a worthwhile cause.

Here's to many more events like this, where fun, connection, and charity come together to make a meaningful difference!

OLD FAIR DAY IN SLIGO
By Marie Gillagan, Grow Area Coordinator, NorthWestern Region

Marie Gilligan, Area Co-ordinator for Sligo and Leitrim areas, attended the 37th Tubbercurry Old Fair Day on Wednesday, August 14th. The day's setup included a cafe style information point for the general public with lots of entertainment that consisted of music, dancing, refreshments, and a play area for children. This inclusive fair day welcomed and celebrated diverse communities. This historical event provided the ideal opportunity to showcase Grow and heighten the profile of the organisation. It offered people the opportunity to learn about the services and supports provided by Grow locally, and to speak with the Area Coordinator in a relaxed and informal setting. The occasion also provided an excellent opportunity for mental health groups to network, learn, and connect with one another. It demonstrated the power and strength of organisations working together to promote positive mental health and well-being for all members of their communities.

   


TOGETHER AT THE CASTLE MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING EVENT IN MALLOW
By Noreen O'Sullivan, Grow Area Coordinator, Southern Region

Sunday September 8th saw the return, for the third year, of the very successful “Together  At The Castle “ Mental Health and Wellbeing Event in Mallow Castle

This free event is the brainchild of HSE Cork Kerry Community, in partnership with Cork County Council, Mallow Chamber of Commerce, and others, to raise awareness of the many available Support Services in the area.

While, the sun didn’t shine, the clouds didn’t deter the  five thousand plus crowd attending this wonderful free event, under the gaze of Mallow Castle and its beautiful grounds .

There was something for everyone.  From Yoga, Face Painting, Wobbly Circus, and Games for the children, to Live Music, Food, Arts & Crafts, Comedians, and Well Being Workshops.

There were over 50 Local and Regional Community Groups with information stands on the day.

The Grow stand was very busy, I am delighted to say, with over 500 leaflets distributed, and many stopping to enquire about meetings in their area. Interestingly, many asked  “What can Grow do for me”? This has very much changed, from “Who is this Organisation and what do you do?”

It was very obvious from the event that the message of Grow is getting out to the Community. Our good work needs to continue, as our service is needed now more than ever. As our last visitor to our stand left, she said, “I now leave the day with hope in my heart”

A great end to a very worthwhile enjoyable  informative day.

You can check out some of the highlights from their epic challenge in this video created by Stephen: 
https://youtu.be/nbjQ19OINAE?si=gQdZZ-3K_CJ5CUiz

Listen to them share their experience and motivation here:
https://grow.ie/grow-mental-health-podcast-gathering-for-grow-mh/