Local Heroes Rallying for Charity
Photos by Ian Davis and Mr Liam Tilly
In the core of our active community where neighbours look out for one another and shared values run deep, one man stands out for his unwavering dedication to making a difference and has made it his mission to support those in their most vulnerable moments. Liam Tilly, a very long time resident and tireless fundraiser has helped raise vital funds for Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services in Harold’s Cross.
Mr Tilly has brought hope, resources, and unity to countless lives. What began as a personal connection to the hospice, quickly grew into a heartfelt commitment to easing the journey for patients and their families when they need it most. Whether he’s organising raffles, sales of his Christmas cards, or local businesses organising fundraising events and community funds on his behalf, not to mention his very famous yearly tradition of the turning on his Christmas lights at his home in Bath Avenue for everyone of all ages to enjoy, Mr Tilly brings sincerity, warmth, and a deep sense of purpose to everything he does. To him, fundraising isn’t just about money. It’s about stories, relationships and honouring life in its final chapter. He is not just a supporter of the hospice—he is one of its most powerful advocates, bringing comfort not only for patients, but to the entire wider community that surrounds them while also inspiring others to believe in the power of giving.
To date, Mr Tilly has raised €235,000 for the hospice and is determined to break the €250,000 mark this Christmas and the success of raising such a significant amount of money speaks volumes about the respect and trust others have in him. It reflects on his life spent serving others, not for recognition, but because he genuinely cares. And as he celebrated a significant life event, turning the remarkable age of 90 in early June with all of his family and friends, Mr Tilly simply embodies what it means to be a pillar in his community. We wish him all the best!
In another inspiring display of community spirit and determination, local barman Phil Kealy has successfully raised €2,900 for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland through his participation in the Dublin City half marathon on 30th March. The funds will go toward improving care for those living with dementia, offering resources for families and caregivers, and funding much needed research into finding more effective treatments. Phil, a well-known barman in O’Reilly’s pub in Sandymount, decided to run the 13.1 miles to spread awareness and raise vital funds for the charity. The decision wasn’t just about challenging himself physically, it was also born out of a deeply personal connection, having a close family member with early onset dementia and he wanted to do something that could really help those facing this struggle and highlighting the issue through his endurance and perseverance— qualities that mirror the daily battles faced by individuals with dementia.
Phil, who is now an active runner, had completed his first full marathon in October 2024 but this time he had found a charity that did brilliant work and it felt right that he could give something back. The support was overwhelming with patrons reaching out with similar stories and that made him feel he had a whole community of people who had his back and understood what he was feeling and it really showed when people unite, they can make a big difference in someone’s life. And when he crossed the finish line, it was emotional, but he knew who he was doing it for and that pushed him through.
For Phil, this is just the beginning. He plans to work with the charity again with future fundraising events in the pub and he can’t speak highly enough of the team in The Alzheimer’s Society, over their expertise and gentleness, and anytime he needed advice they were there and always got back to him with information and the amount of knowledge he’s gained from them about dementia has given him such a huge support system which helps his peace of mind.
Phil’s marathon journey has shown the power of a single individual to spark real change and no matter how small or large the effort, every step counts when it comes to making a difference.
For more information on The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland, they can be found online at Alzheimer.ie or 1800 341 341
To keep updated on any upcoming events in O’Reilly’s, check out their social media pages. And make sure to pop into them in Sandymount as their newly refurbished back garden is absolutely lush! Perfect for summer days/evenings.
