ABOUT US
Local Castlebar DJ Johnny Oosten first got involved with Autism when his
close friend's son called Jordan was diagnosed with autism in July
2006. Johnny witnessed firsthand the distraught nature of the condition and also the
huge impact it had on Jordan's family and indeed
Jordan's everyday life.
The shock of receiving the diagnosis was very difficult but as what to do or where to
go next proved even more ardous. During this time one night at home Johnny watched a
Prime Time special on RTE 1, on an individual case of Autism in Ireland. This
programme, although heart wrenching, stirred an idea in Johnny's
mind and heart to help these kids in whatever way he could. When Johnny learned that
there was no ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis) school in Mayo, with the
appropriate educational needs for these kids, he thought of an event not done before.
And so the Seven Day in a Row Croagh Patrick Challenge was born.
From day one, for Johnny, this was all about his love for that boy called Jordan and
his willingness for Jordan to get the best of help and care he could. Now that this
event has grown so much, all children with Autism in Mayo and elsewhere will benefit
from the dedication of one man's idea to climb Croagh Patrick 7 days
in a row.
Crew L-R: Pat Kearns, Bernie Kearns, Johnny Oosten, Ann Oosten, Dennis
Dunleavy
