By Aodh O’Loan – Pics by Dylan McIlwaine
In times of adversity you turn to your family and friends for support. In the case of Neil “Vic” McCann, a man who has given enormously to the GAA and his local Club, Con Magees, that concept of family and friends stretches well beyond those with a hierarchical or DNA connection to Vic. On Saturday, March 12th well over 100 brave souls embraced the elements and terrain to make the three hour walk over the mountain from Dungonnell Dam to Carnlough in support of Clash Cancer. What struck me most was the smiling faces and overall energy of the posse as they strode along the Dungonnell Way at the outset of the journey.
They were there out of a sense of respect for a man and a cause they felt passionately compelled to support. They were there from our local and neighbouring parishes. Many who could not make it on the day, young and old, had left video messages of support in the days leading up to the main event. It was humbling to see the Antrim Senior Hurlers bedecked in uniform and striding proudly along with team team manger Darren Gleeson having made a very generous financial donation earlier.
All of those who organised and took part should feel proud of their achievement on the day and Vic should feel justifiably proud that, in his hour of need, so many people rallied to support a man who gave and gives so much to the GAA. We wish Vic well on his road to recovery. He can rest assured we are all with him on that journey.
Dyan McIlwaine was there for the Saffron Gael to capture some great memories.
