Sr. Veronica Gilsenan
Irish Wheelchair Association, Offaly Branch, Tullamore, Co Offaly
Approximately forty-five years ago Sister Veronica set up the Irish Wheelchair Association in Offaly. She was far ahead of her time in bringing in equal opportunity values to the community in Tullamore when she helped a young boy (who did not want to return to school in Dublin) enrol in the local primary school. Sister Veronica has since overseen the work of the Irish Wheelchair Association’s social outings, holidays and Christmas parties for over forty years. She regularly visits the disabled, often assisting them in obtaining their entitlements, whilst also attending to their physical well-being. In 1950 Sister Veronica organised fundraising activities to purchase a bus, which has since enabled disabled people to travel all over Ireland as well as to local social and community outings. Two years ago she almost lost her sight and since her recovery she has bravely continued her extraordinary work with the disabled. Veronica has real courage and determination, and she is committed to the disabled at all times, bringing incredible positivity and changes to the lives of so many people in Offaly. The committee and volunteers love working with her, and at ninety-one years young she acts half her age!
“I want to pay tribute to the tremendous work being done by so many voluntary charitable organisations. The beauty of it now is that all these are working together with the relevant statutory bodies for the good of all. I thank my community in Tullamore, Co. Offaly and my many colleagues and friends who supported me over the years.” – Sister Veronica
Photograph by Maureen McDonnell
Congratulations Veronica. Delighted to hear this great news. Well deserved. Enjoy your evening. Cecilia.
Congratulations on your nomination. You have worked tirelessly for many causes and people.
Gongratulations on your nomination. You have worked tirelessly for many causes and People
Kitty Murray
Congratulations Sr.Veronica, on your nomination.It is well deserved after a lifetime of dedication and hard work. You are an inspiration to all who know you .Best wishes. Anne Gouldsbury
Wonderful person doing such great work at 91+ years! Go neiri an tadh leat agus buiochas duit.
I am very proud of you! You have touched so many peoples lives and if I can even be a patch on you I will be happy.
It is not often that you get close up on a true saint. When you get that opportunity your perception of how we treat each other is altered for the good, forever. It is not just in the actions you take to alleviate the suffering in the lives of others but it is by virtue of your casual, honest love for all you meet that causes this world to be a better place. It is truly an honour to know you and the impact you have made in my life is incalculable. Thank you for your love.
In actual fact whether your nomination is successful or not matters little but if it means your influence for good an be extended in some way then that it wonderful. David
Congratulations Veronica. We are very proud of you. Today will be a memorable day for you. You deserve this recognition of the great work you have done over the years for such a deserving cause. May you have a very happy night.
Nov 4th 2009
Congratulations Sr Veronica on your nomination
Love & Best Wishes From
Terry, Rita & All The Family
It is really strange reading about the disabled. i take it you mean people with a disability—-it a subtle but important difference .i am sure Sr Veronicia would know .i wish her all the best
I was thrilled, but not surprised at all when I heard about Sister Veronica’s nomination. This lady is not only a beautiful human being, but a true & ever-humble servant of God – a ‘living saint’. I have referred to her in the past as the “Mother Theresa of Tullamore”. This lady deserves all the accolades showered upon her. Congratulations.
Congratulations Veronica. You are the best.
Congratulations Sr. Veronica! Be your usual self tonight and wow them all! Proud of you and all your works. Kathleen