Health Minister has paid tribute to Fermanagh man Grant Weir’s remarkable fundraising efforts
Date published:
Health Minister Robin Swann was speaking after meeting with Mr. Weir, a former soldier who suffered serious life-changing injuries following an explosion in 1979, and his family who now provide his caring needs in the village of Ballinamallard.
Following sustaining serious injuries in the bomb attack, Grant was not expected to walk again however he defied the odds and over a six week period he walked over the equivalent of a 26 mile marathon and raised some £14,000 for local charities.
Health Minister commented: “Every day I hear stories about the fantastic work our carers do, I was particularly struck by Grant’s story and I am delighted to have met with him today. He is a remarkable character who has shown real inspiration and determination.
“It goes without saying that his carers, especially his sister Michelle Nixon are to be commended. As this year’s Carers Week comes to a close, I want to again thank all of those with caring roles in our society, they really do help those they care for to keep moving forward with fulfilling lives each and every day.”
Grant Weir's sister and main carer Michele Nixon added: "As a family we appreciate Minister Swann coming along today, his presence honours my brother Grant and his incredible achievement of walking a distance in excess of a marathon over a 6-week period. This was against the backdrop of us being told that Grant would never walk again.
"As a family our lives as well as Grant's irreversibly changed on the day Grant was blown up, we became carers for him overnight. Over the years it has been challenging but two organisations who have stood by us are The South East Fermanagh Foundation and The Ely Centre.
"We wished to say thank you to these organisations and that was the basis for the walking fundraiser which has raised £14,000. Both groups do much to support the needs of the seriously injured and carers and we trust that the monies will help to support the mental health and wellbeing needs of many other victims and survivors."
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- Caption: Roy Crawford, Sharon Breen, Health Minister Robin Swann, Eric Brown, Grant Weir and Kenny Donaldson