SICILIAN PLANS TO ‘FIL’ REFUGE PURSE
A Sicilian native who has made Clonmel his home for the best part of 20 years is set to embark on a mammoth challenge to raise funds for Cuan Saor women’s refuge.
Fil Guida, a retired nurse and social worker/care manager, plans to walk or cycle 1,000 kilometres in five weeks.
What began as a fitness regime to get Fil in better shape will now double up as a fundraiser for Cuan Saor, the women’s refuge centre in Clonmel.
Fil was born and raised in Sicily before moving to England where he set up home for 28 years working as a nurse and social worker/care manager.
He moved to Clonmel 20 years ago, and has immersed himself in many community activities.
He is a serving director of Clonmel Credit Union and has been an active member of the community volunteering with Citizens Information for 18 years.
Speaking to The Premier Newspaper, Fil said his plans for a new fitness regime has given him the opportunity to raise funds for such a vital service at Cuan Saor, an idea that came about after listening to a news article about the insufficient space for vulnerable women to access.
“I hope to raise €2,000,” said Fil who will set off on his first walk on March 21.
“The reason my target is €2,000 is because if 1,000 people give €2 each then I’ll have achieved my goal.
“I really hope that people will accompany me on my walk. I will be walking the Blueway which is a fabulous walk and I don’t expect anyone to do the full 20k. I would just love some company along the way,” said Fil.
“Any donation will help, Cuian Saor are a fantastic organisation and I would dearly love to help them.
“A new Art and Therapy room would be so beneficial to all of the children who stay at their premises. Any donation at all would help and would be hugely appreciated,” added Fil.
And if you would like to donate you can visit the GoFundMe site and search for Fil Guida.
Fil will embark on his first walk starting from Cuan Saor, Jervis Place, Parnell St, Clonmel at 11am on March 21.
If you are joining Fil on his fundraising journey why not take some photos and post them on social media using the hashtags #cuansaor and #Filsfundraiser.