LETTER: Mick takes comfort from great love and generosity

SIR – Mick Collins is strong in his gratitude and a little astonished that people would come together to do a benefit gig for him, but has taken great comfort in the love and generosity that was shown for him at the Paragon Bar in Skibbereen last Friday night. 

His spirit remains high, despite his big (health) journey ahead, and he has embraced it with such acceptance and inspiring courage. Mick treats us all equally – we are all his best friends – and the faithfulness of that friendship was truly felt on the night. It was wondrous to share with his friends the deep desire to help.

Thanks to you, we raised €1,705. There are so many people to thank: The Paragon Bar, Denny Collins and all his amazing staff; Mick’s band Chapter Two, Tony Davis and all the incredible guest musicians who were many; all the businesses and friends who donated the very generous spot prizes.

The place rocked with such passion and had a very powerful ripple effect with no dancing room left. Many friends travelled long distances to share in his night. 

His family shares a rich appreciation for all that has been done to help Mick and has taken enormous ease in the support shown in their burden to cope. 

Mick was diagnosed with cancer on Feburary 16th, but was already seriously ill with other health problems. Thank you to both Bantry and Skibbereen hospitals for the excellent care he received in the weeks since. 

Mick is currently in Deerpark Nursing Home in Bantry, being built up so that he can be stronger to deal with his journey to the Mercy Hospital for surgery. The duration of his stay in Deerpark is uncertain, so friends need to continue to fundraise to cover the cost of this.

There will be further collection boxes in the Paragon Bar, Pierce Hickey’s Violet House, Brian Hennessy’s Londis, Baby Hannah’s and Cahalane’s Bar, if people wish to continue to help and support him. Thank you once again.  

Many blessings to you all. 

Della Murray,

Bridge Street,

Skibbereen.