Wicklow farmer to drive 700km to Malin Head for suicide prevention
Michael will be driving the same tractor his Grandfather drove when he won the World Ploughing Championships in 1964.
A farmer from Wicklow plans to drive his vintage tractor from Mizen Head to Malin Head.
Michael Keegan will take the seat on his Grandfather's Deutz D40L on Friday, August 21, to complete the 700km trip from Mizen to Malin Head, in aid of suicide prevention charities - 3TS and Pieta House.
The tractor that Michael will be driving is the same tractor his Grandfather, Charlie Kegan, drove when he won the World Ploughing Championships in 1964, which was also the first World Ploughing title ever won in the Republic of Ireland.
With a planned route running through many small towns and villages, Michael hopes to raise as much awareness and funds for suicide prevention along the way.
Speaking about his quest, Michael said, “Sadly, suicide continues to be a tragedy that is all too common in rural farming communities. My main aim is to raise awareness about the help that is available for anyone who finds themselves in a crisis.
“We will be encouraging people to take the first step and talk to someone if they are feeling suicidal, highlighting the valuable help that exists for everyone through Pieta and the practical training and resources available through 3Ts.
“I also believe that help starts in the community and my hope is that this activity encourages everyone to be open to the idea of speaking about suicide if they’re in trouble or to find out more about how they can be the person that someone can turn to in a crisis.
“I’m looking forward to meeting lots of people as we spread our message of help and hope whilst showcasing the Deutz amongst the many tractor enthusiasts and the general public along the way.
“We received a huge amount of help to restore the tractor in 2014 for the 50th anniversary of my grandfather’s victory in 1964. Many people who didn’t even know me, but loved the story, gave time and money for free. This is a special tractor with a lot of history, and I think it is only fitting for it to be part of something that gives back to the community that so generously helped with its restoration. I also believe that this journey will honour my Grandfather Charlie’s great work as he was the first person to bring home a world title in farming for Ireland.”
Pieta will be reinforcing the help that is available nationwide 24/7 via their freefone Crisis Helpline 1800 247 247 (or text HELP to 51444 ) where immediate support is available from qualified therapists. They are available by phone and also provide in- person counselling to those who need help. Visit www.pieta.ie for more information.
3TS is a registered charity founded to raise awareness of suicide and provide practical information and resources for common mental health issues. The charity funds valuable research, including a recent study that has helped inform the National Clinical Care Programme for Self-Harm.
3TS delivers safeTALK Suicide Alertness training free of charge to interested groups and campaigns for improved crisis supports, including the need for dedicated mental health & suicide crisis centres as an alternative to A&E for people in crisis. Please contact [email protected] or visit www.3ts.ie for further information.
Organisers are encouraging everyone – old and young – to check out their itinerary and come out to support Michael and the Deutz as it rolls through their village or town. Keep track of Michael’s progress by following 3TS @3ts_ireland and Pieta @pieta.house on Instagram for updates on his journey.
Donations can be made by visiting here.