Wicklow cafe hosts afternoon tea in support of teacher's life-saving surgery

Delightfully Delicious Café in Arklow hosted a charity afternoon tea to raise vital funds for local primary school teacher Eí’mear Byrne. The goal is to raise €600,000 for Gaelscoil and Inbhir Mhóir teacher’s medical treatment in the US, which is not covered by the HSE. Café owners Gillian and Shaun were motivated by their own experience after Shaun was diagnosed with a rare condition and given three months to live. Medical advances, prayers, and support from family and friends helped Shaun live for 18 years. The event drew far more interest than expected, requiring a larger venue at Shelton with two sittings. Community members donated raffle prizes, supplies, and photography, and loyal customers contributed even when unable to attend.

"“Like Eí’mear and her family, we know what it feels like to receive devastating news. It's like someone has knocked the wind out of you,” Gillian shared. “We were fortunate to access the necessary care here in Ireland, but Eí’mear's situation is different. That's why we felt compelled to help in any way we could.”"

"“Delightfully Delicious also extends gratitude to the many loyal customers who donated despite being unable to attend,” Gillian said. “A speci”"

"Originally, the café planned to host the event within its intimate space, seating just 32 inside and out. But the overwhelming response, reaching 70 bookings soon after announcing the event, meant a larger venue was needed. Thanks to Jimmy Healy from Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney GAA, their function room at Shelton was kindly made available, and two sittings were held: 11:30 a.m., serving 34 guests, and 1:30pm., welcoming 94 guests."

"Café owners Gillian and Shaun were deeply moved to support Eímear and her family as they try to raise €600,000 for the Gaelscoil and Inbhir Mhóir teacher's medical treatment in the US, which is not covered by the HSE. Asked about her inspiration for the afternoon tea, Gillian spoke about their personal experience when, years ago, her partner Shaun was diagnosed with a rare medical condition and given just three months to live."

Read at Irish Independent