Carmel Makes Her Mark at Croke Park
There are many ways to support a worthy cause. Some people bake. Some people walk. Some people organise raffles.
And then there is Ms Dockery.
On Thursday, 11th June, the alarm clock went off at 5:00 am. Drawing back the curtains revealed a very wet and miserable morning. Not ideal when you have to walk across the roof of Croke Park at 9:30 am. Ms Dockery and Mr Ó’ Ceallaigh travelled to Dublin with one goal in mind — for Ms Dockery to take on the daunting challenge of abseiling from the roof of the Hogan Stand in Croke Park in support of My Canine Companion Autism & Therapy Services and Scoil Mhuire Naofa's dream of welcoming a school therapy dog.
The day began bright and early with a journey to Dromod Station. As the train made its way towards Dublin, there was plenty of excitement, anticipation and perhaps just a few butterflies. The challenge ahead was becoming very real.
After arriving at Drumcondra Station, a quick coffee from Nellys Café was in order. Fuelled by caffeine, a short walk to Croke Park followed and the iconic stadium soon came into view. While thousands of players have dreamed of stepping onto the famous pitch, very few dream of stepping off the roof!
Upon arrival, participants were welcomed by the fantastic team from My Canine Companion and the expert instructors from Adventure.ie. on level 7. We were allowed in the press areas of the stadium, but the roof loomed large many feet higher up. Following a detailed safety briefing, helmets, harnesses and gloves were fitted, equipment was checked and re-checked and participants were prepared for what lay ahead.
As Ms Dockery made her way through the stadium and emerged high above the pitch in the Hogan Stand, the scale of the challenge became apparent. Looking out across one of Ireland's most famous sporting arenas was breathtaking. Looking down over the edge was something else entirely! It might be fair to say it left her completely breathless.
With nerves of steel and tremendous determination, Ms Dockery approached the edge of the Hogan Stand and climbed on to the tv screen platform. Hundreds of feet below lay the pristine green surface of Croke Park. She then descended the three ladders to the bottom of the platform.
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for. This included all the staff and pupils of the school who were watching live via ZOOM from Mr Ó’ Ceallaigh’s phone from Section 724.
With complete trust in her equipment and the support team around her and thinking of the greater good – a school therapy dog for the school, Ms Dockery stepped over the edge and began her descent.
Suspended high above the stadium, she made her way steadily down the side of the Hogan Stand while supporters and fellow participants watched from above and below. It was an incredible sight and a remarkable achievement.
When her feet finally touched solid ground once again, there was a huge sense of relief, pride and accomplishment. Mission accomplished!
Most importantly, every step of the challenge helped raise vital funds and awareness for My Canine Companion, an organisation that transforms lives through therapy and assistance dogs for children and families affected by autism.
The event has particular significance for Scoil Mhuire Naofa. As many parents will know, our school has recently received encouraging news that we are expected to begin training with our own My Canine Companion puppy within the next few months. The arrival of a school therapy dog will be a hugely positive addition to our school community, benefiting pupils both in mainstream and special classes.
A therapy dog will support pupils' emotional wellbeing, help reduce anxiety, encourage communication, promote positive social interaction and provide comfort and companionship throughout the school day.
We are incredibly proud of Ms Dockery for taking on such a challenging fundraiser. Her bravery, commitment and willingness to step far outside her comfort zone perfectly reflect the caring and inclusive spirit that exists throughout our school community. It also shows the commitment of our staff.
The entire Scoil Mhuire Naofa family would like to thank everyone who sponsored, supported and encouraged Ms Dockery along the way. Every donation brings us one step closer to welcoming a very special four-legged member of staff to Carrigallen. We are delighted to say that at the time of writing this piece, our school are top of the fundraising leaderboard!
Ms Dockery may have stepped off the roof of Croke Park, but thanks to her efforts, the future for our school therapy dog project is looking brighter than ever.
Well done, Ms Dockery – we are all incredibly proud of you! 🐾💚
