A Bronx, New York born, Castleisland resident with strong Sligo connections played an active part in the rescue effort in the days immediately after the horrific twin towers attack in New York on September 11th 2001.
Michael Burke has been living in Castleisland since late 2005.
At the end of last August as the 19th anniversary of the atrocity was edging closer, Michael Burke got an idea and he embarked on a 32 county mission across Ireland raising 9/11 awareness and funds for LauraLynn – Ireland’s Children’s Hospice.
Gone Through 20 Counties
By now he has completed his journey through 20 counties and is doing some more between here and Christmas
Michael’s plan involves presenting a specially designed 9/11 O’Neill’s jersey to each county and have the players there autograph it and raffle it to raise funds for a local charity of their choice.
On his odyssey, Michael wore a jersey which was autographed by the high profile GAA players he met on the road and this will be presented to LauraLynn – Ireland’s Children’s Hospice.
Donalwalsh#livelife
This jersey had already been signed by Mick O’Connell on Valentia Island.
“I also donated a jersey to Donal Walsh #LiveLife which Peter Keane had the Kerry players sign and we presented it to Elma and Finbarr Walsh.
“The jersey can be seen at John Brennan’s Barbers and anyone who wants one can get in touch with Michael at: mtubbercurry6211@yahoo.com
A Car from Adams
The Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo email address arises as Michael’s father was a native of that area of Sligo and his mom hailed from Charlestown, Co. Mayo.
Michael mentions Des Adams of Adams Garage, Tralee who supplied him with a car for the duration of his journey around Ireland to date.
Hoping to Reach €10,000
Michael’s 9/11 memorial jersey project has raised €7,400 to date and he’s hoping to reach the €10,000 goal.
“I’m hoping to get my total up to the €10,000 mark and I’m asking people to get behind the project for one final push. “
“If they could write ‘9/11 jersey donation’ on a cheque to help get it up there it would be greatly appreciated,” said Michael as he wished all round him ‘A Merry Christmas.’
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