Valerie and Colm Caffrey recently presented a cheque to Ireland rugby international and NCBI ambassador Robbie Henshaw, part of the proceeds of their fundraiser. Here is the team photographed on top of Carrauntoohil at sunrise.

Four Peaks success for Virginia couple and their friends

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A Virginia couple and their friends have completed the Four Peaks Challenge and raised over €70,000 for a number of charities as a way to say 'thank you' to those who helped their daughter overcome medical issues.

Valerie and Colm Caffrey recently presented a cheque to Ireland rugby international and NCBI ambassador Robbie Henshaw, part of the proceeds of their fundraiser.

Their daughter Indie developed a condition called Hydrocephalus, which caused fluid on her brain and resulted in her needing four brain surgeries before her first birthday. Indie was also diagnosed with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL) and Cerebral Palsy - Spastic Diplegia.

"The four charities have been amazing to us. We’re indebted to the staff. We just want to give something back,” explained mum Valerie.

The couple, along with their friends - Michéal O’Reilly (Virginia), Shane Maguire, Lorcan Fox, Rory McHugh (all Oldcastle) and Ellevyn Irwin (Donegal) - raised over €70,000 for NCBI, Children’s Health Foundation Temple Street, Enable Ireland and Friends of the Coombe. The Four Peaks Challenge saw them climb the highest peak in each of Ireland’s four provinces in 24 hours.

Together they made their way to the summit of Mweelrea, Co Mayo; followed by Carrauntoohil, Co Kerry; before ascending Lugnaquilla, Co Wicklow and finished with climbing Slieve Donard, Co Down. The task involved a total distance of 1194km and 7254m between ascents and descents. The team completed the challenge with 20 minutes to spare, with over 25 people joining them on the final climb. Valerie also thanked all those who helped to raise the funds saying: "We would like to thank everyone who sponsored a prize for the raffle and auction, which contributed hugely to our fundraiser: Danielle Brady, Farnham Estate; Mark & Nicola Kerr, Oak Tiling; Rory McHugh, DIAGEO; Ann Coyle & Fintan Creamer, Cavan Complex; Dominic Smiths Electrical; Sunway Holidays; Blackstone Motors Cavan; Specsavers Cavan; Thomas Brady at Martin Shortt Insurances; Lisgrey House; Hair Envy by Frances; John McNamee Oldcastle; Sheridans Cheesemongers; SG Elite Fitness and Matthews Bar, Virginia; The Riverfront Hotel, Virginia; Gemma Carew Photography and Buggy Coaches.

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