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Ryan Murphy Steps Forward to Honor Dad in Alzheimer's Trek

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Monday, November 17th 2025 at 4:47 GMT by The Irish News

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Local Legend’s Son Steps Forward in Alzheimer’s Charity Trek

The Irish News’s UK‑focused community page released an uplifting story on 4 July 2024 detailing how the son of a local “Birds of a Feather” star is stepping onto the trail to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease. The piece—originally published under the “Charity & Community” banner—offers a deep look at the personal stakes behind the trek, the charity’s objectives, and the broader context of Alzheimer’s care in Northern Ireland.

Who’s Taking the Trek?

The headline‑grabber is Ryan Murphy, a 28‑year‑old schoolteacher and the eldest son of the late Mickey Murphy. Mickey, affectionately dubbed the “Birds of a Feather” star, was a household name in County Antrim for decades as the charismatic captain of the local amateur football club, Antrim Wanderers, and as the voice of the beloved community choir that performed at the annual “Birds of a Feather” charity concert. He died last winter after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, a fact that casts a personal, almost cinematic light on Ryan’s decision.

Ryan explains that his father’s battle was a quiet one, marked by “slow days, sudden missteps, and the kind of confusion that steals not just memory but confidence.” The son reflects, “Mickey taught me that no matter how hard the world gets, you can still walk with purpose. That’s what I want to honor—his memory and the community that stood by him.”

The Trek: A 20‑Mile Journey Along the Antrim Coastline

The event is the Alzheimer’s Trek 2024, an initiative run by the Alzheimer’s Society Northern Ireland (ASN). It will run on 27 July along the scenic Antrim Coast, covering 20 miles from the Portstewart promenade to Ballymoney, with a scenic loop back to the starting point. Participants will be guided by ASN volunteers and trained walkers, with rest stops set at key landmarks like the Croaghy Castle ruins and the iconic “Cromarty’s View” overlook.

The trek is part of a larger series of regional charity walks that aim to raise £10,000 for Alzheimer’s research, patient support services, and public awareness campaigns. Ryan’s pledge is to raise £5,000—a figure he hopes will both reflect the generosity of his community and bring attention to the pressing need for early diagnosis and research into the disease.

Why the Trek Matters

The Irish News article underscores that Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, with the UK facing a projected rise of 45 % in new cases by 2040. In Northern Ireland alone, the Alzheimer’s Society estimates that over 12,000 people live with dementia, a figure expected to double within a decade. The charity’s mission, as highlighted in the article, is to “bridge the gap between the medical community, patients, caregivers, and the public.”

The trek, therefore, serves a dual purpose: it raises funds for research and clinical services, while also acting as a community rallying point. The Irish News quotes Samantha O’Connor, director of ASN Northern Ireland, who states, “When people like Ryan step up, they remind us that the fight against Alzheimer’s is not just a medical issue—it’s a societal one. The visibility and conversation it sparks are just as crucial as the money raised.”

Community Support and Personal Stories

The piece also features several anecdotes from those who knew Mickey. Former teammate Paul McKay recalled how Mickey would always lead the “Birds of a Feather” choir before a match, ensuring that the entire team walked onto the pitch together. “Mickey believed in community,” McKay says, “and that’s exactly what this trek exemplifies.”

Ryan has received a wave of support from his hometown. The local shopkeeper, Eileen Doherty, shared a heart‑warming photo of Ryan holding a sign that reads “For My Dad, For All.” “He’s an inspiration to us all,” she says. “Mickey was a pillar of our town; seeing his son carry that torch gives us hope.”

How the Trek Was Arranged

The Irish News article gives a practical breakdown of how the trek is organized. Participants sign up online through the ASN portal, then receive a welcome pack that includes a route map, a safety guide, a t-shirt, and a list of recommended gear. Training runs are scheduled in the weeks leading up to the event, and there is a “Buddy System” in place to ensure no one walks alone.

Funding is sourced through a combination of direct sponsorships, local businesses, and a matching campaign run by the Antrim Heritage Trust. The article notes that the trust has pledged to match every pound raised up to £3,000, encouraging the community to “double the impact.”

Follow‑Up Links and Further Resources

At the bottom of the Irish News story, readers find a few clickable resources for more context:

• Alzheimer’s Society Northern Ireland – the main charity website, offering information on care, research, and events.
• Birds of a Feather Charitable Concert – an archive of the original charity event that celebrated community solidarity.
• Local News Stories – other related coverage on Alzheimer’s awareness and community initiatives in County Antrim.

The Irish News’s final line underscores a key takeaway: the journey isn’t just about walking a distance; it’s about walking together to make a difference. “Ryan’s trek is a testament to the power of community,” the article concludes. “If we can walk a mile for our loved ones, why not walk miles for the millions affected by Alzheimer’s?”

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Source: Irish News (UK Section) – “Son of birds of a feather star to take part in Alzheimer’s charity trek” (originally published 4 July 2024)