Sunflower-picking fundraiser kicks off today in aid of Paudie Coady

Joe’s Farm Crisps, an East Cork-based family-run farm in Killeagh, is hosting its annual sunflower-picking fundraiser throughout July and August in aid of 16-year-old Paudie Coady, who suffers from a rare genetic disorder.

The Coady family is also dealing with the effects of the loss of their other son, 13-year-old Rory, to Friedreich’s Ataxia last September, while their mother Della is in residential care in Dublin with Huntington’s disease.

Sunflower picking will begin today and tomorrow from 4pm to 8pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

To stay informed on the sunflower-picking days and times, check out Joe’s Farm Crisps on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok — the schedule updates Monday of each week and is subject to change depending on weather.

The entrance fee is €40 per car and includes a bunch of sunflowers — each additional bunch costs €20 — and the entrance fee also includes access to the farm-walking trails.

Booking is not required for the sunflower picking, and it is a cash-only event. A donation from the sunflower picking will be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.

Sandra Burns, of Joe’s Farm Crisps said: “The last year has been an incredibly difficult time for the Coady family and we, as a farm and family, are incredibly proud to help fundraise to get the support Paudie needs.

“Since we first started the sunflower-picking event, we have been able to raise money for lots of different charities close to our hearts, and this year’s event is even more significant than others. The farm offers wonderful views, and is a fantastic family day out.

“If you have been following my cousin Paudie and his family’s story and feel like supporting them, we would be delighted if you would join us on our farm over the next few weeks.”

Since starting the sunflower picking in 2021, Joe’s Farm Crisps has used the event to raise money for a number of different causes close to the family’s heart.