Slieve Binnian walk in memory of Bas

Hard to believe that has been a year since 14 year old girl Karolina, came up with an idea to run a charity walk in memory of her dad's (Bas) loss and to support local Cardiac First Responders!

We have received unforgettable support last year and as the year passed Karolina and her sister Solita decided to continue the idea and walk Slieve Binnian, in the Mourne mountains this year.

Her dad and mum has established local business called Sushi-Mania Kitchen in Main street, Virginia, Co.Cavan.

Bas used to do mountain biking in various locations, one of his favorites was Slieve Binnian, in the Mourne mountains. So, myself (Jolita),my daughters Karolina and Solita , and the whole team of Sushi-Mania decided to hike Slieve Binnian trial of 9km.

Our goal is to raise money to support Cardiac First Responders for our local communities safety and heath.

"The volunteers and board members of Virginia First Responders are deeply touched at being the beneficiaries of funds raised by the Slieve Binnian walk in memory of our friend Bas Wiebenga, one great guy, and a friend to many in Virginia.

Our hearts and thanks go out to Jolita and the family for choosing our work to benefit.

All funds raised by this sponsored walk will go to the purchase of a medical pack/s containing the ‘tools’ needed at the time of a call.

A single pack carried by a duty responder costs €1500 each. Our aim is to be able to equip two duty responders to respond to a call to us from the National Ambulance Service [the NAS], with whom we work. The life we save may be yours. We appreciate your generosity in undertaking the walk and in getting sponsored for your efforts.

At present we have 14 volunteers on our books. All donating their time to help our neighbors at the worst times in their lives. In addition to responding, they spend many hours training and updating themselves for our work.

The walk will take place at Slieve Binnian, in the Mourne mountains on the 6th of July 2025.