Friends of Ian St John organise Killeen Castle "Golf Classic" for October 7

The Friends of Ian St John are seeking support for a major Golf Classic at Killeen Castle on Monday, October 7.

The Tramore native and former Rush professional has been using a wheelchair since he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma of the spine just three years ago.

While life has not been easy for Ian and his family, the many friends he has made over the years have not forgotten him and continue to organise events to help him meet his medical costs.

More than €5,000 in prizes will be up for grabs at Killeen Castle on October 7, according to organiser Seamus Muldowney.

A team of four costs €280 for the 12 pm shotgun start and the day's golf at the magnificent Jack Nicklaus designed, Solheim Cup course will be followed by dinner and a raffle.

Ian's life changed forever in August 2016 when he became paralysed and a subsequent MRI revealed a massive tumour on his spine.

His wile Orla (who also has Multiple Sclerosis) was eight months pregnant at the time and gave birth to a baby girl a month later while Ian was having his first round of chemotherapy.

He had spinal surgery and a gruelling course of chemotherapy and radiation before spending the next eight months as an inpatient at Beaumont Hospital.

Thankfully, Ian's cancer is in remission, but he remains paralysed and was sadly forced to resign his position as Head PGA Professional at Rush.

He moved his family back to Tramore to be close to family for support and is now pursuing specialist neurological care.

While treatment, physiotherapy, equipment and travel are proving expensive, they are also proving worthwhile.

Recovering from a spinal cord injury requires an indefinite amount of time, expertise and energy and the Friends of Ian St John would gratefully appreciate any support received.

To enter a team in the Golf Classic at Killeen Castle on October 7, email your team line up — team name, captain, contact number — to greatrishgolf@gmail.com.

For all queries, please contact Seamus Muldowney on 057 864 5654 (landline) or 086 059 6114 (mobile).