Thank You on Behalf of Gerry Nayna

UPDATE: 17th May 2011 - Sadly, Gerry Nayna passed away this morning. R.I.P.

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The recent benefit night held in Clontarf for Gerry Nayna clearly struck a chord with local people and there was a very big turnout on the night. Maura Devine of the organising committee has asked us to publish the following thank you note to all of the residents and local businesses in Clontarf who supported the event.

"Friday 11th March, 8.00 p.m., the Concert for Gerry was about to start.  The Artists had been introduced - Third Day Chorale with their Musical Director, Rudhairí Ó Dálaigh, Dublin Male Voice Choir under the guidance of Mahon Kennedy, resplendent in their ‘Dublin’ blue dickie bows, Margaret Ó Dálaigh, who should have been somewhere else but chose to entertain the people in St. Gabriel’s first. 

Bryan Hoey, tenor, who certainly needed no introduction, Gerry Noonan, baritone who apart from his own selection joined Bryan in popular duets and finally but by no means least, pianist Pauline Cooper who accompanied everyone on the night.  It was a great tribute to Jerry that all Artists gave their services voluntarily on the night.

Father Pat McManus led the people in a prayer for Jerry’s recovery before the Concert started.  His Mum, Christine, arrived from the hospital and it is hoped that the she gained some comfort from the great reception she got from the almost full Church.

Entertainment wise the Concert was a great success with non stop performances, apart for a short break for a Raffle, for which 51 prizes were donated in the main from the local businesses in Clontarf.  It was a very satisfied audience who eventually left the Church after 10.00 p.m.

The tidy up was followed by the very pleasant task of counting the proceedings.  An unprecedented figure of just over €6,000 was achieved.  It was an incredible show of generosity by so many people from all over Dublin, a special thanks to the local business people, Clontarf Residents Association and Northside People.

The night was a wonderful tribute to a young man who has endeared himself to all who frequent in Tillies. Unfortunately, Gerry still remains very ill and is totally unaware of the good will that is felt towards him, there is no doubt that he would be very grateful for all that is being done for him.  It is hoped, with the care of the Medical Team in Beaumont and the good wishes and prayers of so many that he will recover."