Cork's Izzy Showbizzy trekked the Camino raising funds to help save lives

Cork woman Isabel Bartak-Healy has raised more than €2,500 for emergency medical charity, CRITICAL.

Ms Bartak-Healy, also known as Izzy Showbizzy of Cork’s 96FM, undertook a 120km trek across the Spanish Camino to raise funds for the charity.

The money raised, totalling at €2,700 through her fundraising page, will go towards the expansion of the charity’s teams of volunteer responders.

“Even though it was tough at times, I’m delighted to have raised the money for CRITICAL and complete the trip,” Ms Bartak-Healy said.

“I was surrounded by a wonderful group of people and it’s good to challenge yourself at times, too.

“CRITICAL provides a crucial service to local communities and public funds are essential to continue the work and grow the network of volunteer responders around the country.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who donated on my fundraiser page. I’m thrilled with the response. It was an incredible experience - one I will never forget.”

Volunteers

CRITICAL volunteers have responded to more than 830 calls to date this year, which include emergencies ranging from cardiac arrests to road traffic collisions.

Volunteers with the service include doctors, medical professionals, and local community members who attend serious incidents and emergencies in their areas.

“A heartfelt thank you to Izzy, fellow walkers, and the cyclists for their time and commitment to complete the trip,” CEO of CRITICAL, David Tighe, said.

“Together with everyone at CRITICAL we appreciate all your efforts and your fundraising.

“It costs €1,500 to provide a responder with an emergency backpack containing a defibrillator, a resuscitation kit, and a medical diagnostic kit.

“The funds raised will enable us to carry on our vital work and expand our services to more of Ireland.”

For more information on the work carried out by CRITICAL or to make a donation visit https://criticalcharity.ie/camino.