Churchill woman Mary Bradley held a party like no other last weekend as she marked her 50th birthday one year late.

The celebration in Wilkins Bar on Friday was in aid of the Medical Rehabilitation Unit in Letterkenny as a show of thanks for their incredible work in getting Mary back on her feet after a serious health scare. 

Mary’s actual fiftieth birthday was in April 2022. The special occasion, however, passed by in a blur. Mary had been in hospital for the two months prior, battling a series of serious complications arising from having her bowel removed. The surgery saved her life, and even though the months that followed were extremely difficult, Mary is happy to be alive today.

Mary, John and their grown-up children Declan, Rebecca and Rachael have had a year filled with challenges, but they are keen to celebrate what they have.

Mary, grateful for her second chance, wanted to give back to the amazing team of the St. Conal’s campus facility in Letterkenny. She decided to celebrate her 50th in style, with music, special guests and a raffle that was very generously supported by local businesses and individuals.

Mary said: “The crowds were massive, and we received great local support from Glenswilly, Churchill, Gartan, Castlefinn and Finn Valley in general.

“Professor Ken Mulpeter was our guest of honour and spoke passionately about the work of the Medical Rehabilitation Unit, which he helped set up 20 years ago. He gave an insightful speech on what to do if you think you are having a stroke, stressing the importance of moving quickly in this medical emergency.

“Wilkins Bar are a fantastic family run pub/restaurant which is the heart of Churchill and Victor is so up for a laugh always has a smile on his face and his wife Michelle is so lovely too, really warm genuine people.”

The evening was a great success, with the grand total raised to be revealed!

See photos here: 

Birthday Girl Mary Bradley snaps a selfie with Prof Ken Mulpeter