Laois fire fighters team up with local teen to raise over €16,000

Laois County Fire and Rescue Service helped to raise a whopping €16,000 through a charity football match over the weekend. 

The money was raised thanks to the initiative of local teenager Robert Norman. He wanted to help Family Carers Ireland and increase awareness of autism and the impact of caring for adults and children with additional needs. 

Robert was born three weeks early in February 2008. From the time he was a baby Robert was quite sick and had many hospital stay overs in Portlaoise where a series of tests were carried out.

Robert was diagnosed with asthma, a cross fused ectopic kidney and scoliosis. At the age of three Robert was diagnosed with autism. In later years it was discovered that Robert was also dyslexic and had dyscalculia.

Robert is a fun loving, kind hearted and caring child in his own way. He is adventurous and likes GAA and always has a football in his hands. Robert continues to have medical issues and appointments which keep his mother Martina and father Joe busy but they wouldn't have it any other way.

Robert approached Laois County Fire and Rescue Service and asked Sub Station Officer, Ed Gallagher and Station Officer, Paul Bolger of Portarlington Fire Station to come onboard. They accepted the challenge.

Laois County Fire and Rescue Services, who have a tradition of supporting good causes, rolled in behind the event and soon had a panel ready to play a charity match over the October Bank Holiday weekend. 

They agreed to play a charity football match in Arlington football pitch against team Family Carers Ireland captained by Robert on Saturday, October 27 at 1pm.  

Laois County Fire and Rescue Service won the match 6 - 1 but the real winner on the day  was Family Carers Ireland who will benefit to the tune of over €16,000. 

Despite some heavy rainfall, the match was a huge success and was enjoyed by contestants and spectators alike. A link to the fundraising page can be found here: https://gofund.me/840da59f