3-year-old from Mayo announced as ambassador for important initiative

Woodie's Heroes ambassador Iris Carty from Mayo for Down Syndrome Ireland with her mum Ciara.
As Woodie’s Heroes marks its 10th anniversary, the campaign proudly announced 3-year-old Iris Carty from Co. Mayo as an ambassador for Down Syndrome Ireland in this year's fundraising initiative. The Woodie’s Heroes 2024 campaign, running from now until 10th August, aims to raise essential funds for four Irish children's charities: Down Syndrome Ireland, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, Children’s Health Foundation, and ISPCC Childline.
Iris is a happy 3-year-old with Down syndrome, living with her family in Crossmolina, Co. Mayo. Her parents, James and Ciara, have found invaluable support from Down Syndrome Ireland since Iris’s birth. James, a Sergeant with An Garda Síochána, and Ciara, a theatre nurse at Mayo University Hospital, credit the charity with providing the tools and community they needed to navigate their journey.
James is also the Chairperson of the Down Syndrome Ireland Mayo branch in Castlebar Speaking about their experience James and Ciara said, "The support from Down Syndrome Ireland has been a lifeline for us, particularly the speech and language therapy for Iris. It has not only benefited her but also brought us closer as a family. The community support has been incredible, connecting us with other families and providing a strong network of understanding and encouragement."
The Woodie’s Heroes campaign aims to raise funds to further develop the Early Years Communication Programme for young children with Down Syndrome. This initiative is critical for families like the Carty’s, ensuring children receive the necessary resources to reach their full potential.