The Tash for Cash

You may have noticed the number of dodgy moustaches around the country on the rise in recent weeks. Fear not, its not in the name of fashion - though who can argue with a man with a fully grown handlebar - many of the countries sportsmen are growing the mo for charity.

One such participant is Irish international John Jermyn (pictured) who is raising cash with his tash for the Stuart Mangan appeal. Jermyn will grow his moustache for the month of November and is encouraging you to sponsor his efforts.

On April 5 this year, Mangan, a graduate of Rockwell College and UCC, was struck by a devastating spinal injury while playing rugby.

In global terms, Stuart’s injury is the most catastrophic rugby injury seen in recent years. Categorized as C1 Complete, he is completely paralyzed from the neck down and unable to breathe without a ventilator. Stuart will require 24-hour medical care for the rest of his life. Tragically, medical experts have described his spinal injury as the worst to occur in sport.

Stuart’s care will cost millions and quite simply his future is in all our hands. He and his family have been inundated with messages of good will, many wondering just how they can help Stuart deal with the days and years ahead. A fundraising campaign- the Stuart Mangan Appeal - has been launched and each contribution, no matter the size, will help enormously in ensuring Stuart enjoys the best possible quality of life.

To contribute, go to www.stuartmangan.org