Kerry’s first residential centre for profoundly disabled children celebrated 50 years of ground breaking excellence as over 500 residents, families, supporters and friends of the service gathered on Tuesday July 17^th to commemorate its Golden Jubilee.

Messages of congratulation were sent by former Presidents Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson.

“As St Mary of the Angels celebrates a big birthday it is impossible to quantify the debt Ireland owes its staff, supporters, fundraisers, donors and community. They brought light where there was darkness and hope where there was heartache”  –Mary McAleese

General Manager Claire O’ Dwyer spoke of how the tremendous support of the community, from 1969 right up to the present day, has been, and remains, vital to the service.

Mícheál Ó’ Muircheartaigh gave an inspired speech on the vision behind all past, present and future work at Saint Marys and planted an oak tree to symbolise growth for the future. Listen here

To read these messages of congratulation and for additional coverage of the celebrations, please visit our News and Events page at sjogfoundation.ie