Mags & Maurice's Flood Relief Fund

My sister, Margaret (“Mags”), and her husband, Maurice, were recently victims of the devastating floods in Midleton, County Cork, Ireland due to Storm Frank. On the evening of Tuesday, December 29th, floodwater from the Owencurra River some 500m away flowed through a disused factory, contaminating the water, and within minutes their home was submerged in over six feet of water. Mags has progressive Multiple Sclerosis and limited mobility but she, Maurice, their children and dogs were able to get to safety and were rescued via boat by emergency professionals. Their home, their belongings and both of their cars are destroyed (see pictures below). Unfortunately, they do not have comprehensive car insurance, nor were they able to insure the property against flooding due to its proximity to the Owencurra River. This is the only time the river has ever caused flooding on this scale in living memory. Mags already faces medical bills on a regular basis to deal with her deteriorating health and Maurice, a plasterer, is currently unable to get to work since he has no vehicle.

Mags and Maurice are two of the kindest and most generous people I know. They would never ask for help (and will be mortified when they find out I am setting this fund up!), but they truly are in dire need. My sister has worked hard over the years to slow down the process of MS, and stress is a number one cause of often excruciating flare-ups. They have a long road ahead and my hope is that this fund will alleviate much of the stress and hardship they are facing. No amount is too small.

I will be setting up a U.S. bank account where donations on this campaign site will be delivered; all funds will then be distributed directly to Mags and Maurice's account in Ireland. 

Thank you.