Helium 2010 ,Saturday 31st of July, is a micro music festival organized to raise money for the Fredreichs Ataxia Society of Ireland (FASI). Back by popular demand after a hugely successful event in 2009. We are delighted to have Damien Dempsey headlining the event this year along with a huge array of musicians from near and far.  Like last year the festival features camping and the now famous marquee after party featuring DJ's Badseed & Johnny Ponders late into the night.

This year, along with organizing Helium 2010, local men Michael Delaney and Bernard Mulvihill will be attempting to complete the Gael Force West sporting event in Westport, Co. Mayo on the 21st August. To get an idea of what this grueling (typically 5/6 hour duration) multi sporting event is all about click HERE. In summary it is a 20km run, 44km cycle and 1.6km kayak.

As mentioned we are raising funds for the Friedreichs Ataxia Society Ireland (FASI) (http://www.ataxia.ie/) and created this web site to keep everyone informed of our fund raiser event, give everyone the opportunity to donate online, buy tickets and display our progress leading up to the big day. Last year we raised €4000 for FASI, this year we are hoping to double it to €8000

Friedreichs Ataxia is a genetic and progressive disorder of the central nervous system which usually manifests itself in children between the ages of six and sixteen years. However, in some instances the onset for Friedreichs and other Genetic Ataxias can be much later. Because of the genetic factor more than one person in a family may be affected. The general symptoms are clumsiness, difficulties with balance, lack of co-ordination and, in time, a slurring of speech. Although there is no specific treatment for any of the known Ataxia's, fundamental research into its pathogenesis is ongoing worldwide, and there are, in any case, various ways in which the burden on sufferers and their relatives can be lightened... more