Stephen Garland is a man on a mission A COMEDY promoter who ran in the European elections to try and raise awareness of Multiple Sclerosis, and from which he himself suffers from, is taking part in a series of shows and challenges this weekend. Longford man Stephen Garland returns to the Munster Northwest constituency with a series of inspiring events for MS awareness and support. The courageous campaigner was forced to take unexpected break from his MEP campaign due to family health issues, which compromised and led to postponement of many of his intended actions. Stephen, from Granard and who has lived for several years in Barcelona and Brazil, is an international comedy and music promoter and lives with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS).
The centre provides a range of therapeutic services, including counselling, art therapy, and music therapy, to individuals and families affected by mental health issues. The weekend of events will feature a variety of activities, including a charity walk, a fun run, a concert, and a silent auction. The charity walk will be a 5km route through the scenic countryside surrounding Benbulben, offering participants the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery while raising funds for the centre.
“As horrific as this war is my show ‘Best Of Us’ Show is meant as one of reconciliation and hope.” This evening he stages ‘The Best Of Us’ in Granard’s Lus na Gréine at 7.30pm He promises attendees will experience an inspiring journey through comedy, storytelling, and live podcast. Among topics being covered include battling a ‘no treatment, no cure’ diagnosis, advocating for plant medicines, running for MNW MEP to climbing Benbulben. Tomorrow as part of Sligo Culture Night he stages the ‘Best Of Us’ performance at the town’s Garavogue Bar at 7.30pm On Saturday morning Stephen is preparing for a significant challenge: climbing Benbulben Mountain, one of Ireland’s most beautiful landmarks.
The climb is a symbolic gesture of solidarity with both nations, highlighting the shared experiences of suffering and resilience in the face of conflict. The climb will be a platform for raising awareness about the challenges faced by Palestinians and Ukrainians, and for advocating for peace and justice. The organizers of the climb are aiming to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the plight of the Ukrainian people.
The weekend of events will conclude on Saturday evening with a heartfelt tribute to Dubliner Mark Gilligan, a legend of the Irish music industry, who battled MS himself for 16 years. He shared the same stem cell treatment journey as Garland was making similar massive improvements but sadly succumbed to Cancer in September 2023. Following the climb on September 21, a memorial music session led by Joe Connolly will be held in Maeve’s Bar. All musicians are welcome to join and celebrate Gilligan’s enduring legacy. Garland invites everyone to participate in these meaningful events. Full details can be found on his MEP candidacy website, www.garland4europe.com.
