Pictures: Domnick Walsh
A Killarney teenager who completed 50 park runs earlier this year, despite living with considerable health challenges, has been honoured for his gritty determination.
14-year-old Cillian O’Leary, from Kilcummin, scooped the prestigious overall prize in the Kerry Garda Youth Awards, sponsored by Lee Strand, at the weekend.
Cillian is one of just over 200 people worldwide to have been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder known as Hao-Fountain Syndrome.
Some of the symptoms are speech and language impairment, low muscle tone, motor delays, abnormal gait, epilepsy and intellectual disability but plucky Cillian gets on with life as best he can and is determined to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.
Last April Cillian was presented with an achievement band to honour his completing 50 junior park run events at Killarney House and Gardens.
A total of 25 awards were presented and there was a rousing reception for Kerry GAA star Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh who received the special Inspiring Our Youth award.
All awards were presented by Kerry Garda Chief Superintendent Padraic Powell and Kieran Savage, Chairperson, Lee Strand.
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