A Dublin dad is set to kayak the entire length of the Grand Canal over the May bank holiday weekend to raise funds for autism.
Stephen Cullen, a dad -of-four from Knocklyon is hoping to raise funds for 'AsiAm', Ireland's national autism and advocacy organisation.
Along with six of his friends, Stephen will from Friday morning spend 7 hours a day paddling the Canal, taking on 41 locks along the 131km route. The lads are hoping to raise over €20,000 with this challenge.
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Stephen lives in Knocklyon with his wife Orla and their four children, Ella Marie, 16, Tommy, six, Lenny, three, and one-year-old baby Daisy.
Their three-year-old son Lenny was diagnosed with pre verbal autism when he was two years old and he is the heartbeat of the family.
Speaking to Dublin Live, Orla Cullen explained that kayaking is a hobby that Stephen greatly enjoys.
"He hasn't done anything like this before but he's been kayaking for years. Our son Lenny is three and he has pre verbal autism which he was diagnosed with when he was two years old.
"When he we found out he had autism we embraced him, he's taught us so much and changed our perspective on life. AsIAm is fantastic for campaigning to give children and adults with autism the same chance with school placements and in the workplace.
"They look at the present and the future for kids with autism."
Meanwhile, Orla described the "overwhelming" support they have received from their family, friends and the local community as part of their fundraising efforts.
"The support has been overwhelming, even people you might not have spoken to for a few years getting in touch on Facebook and Twitter to support this."
On Friday, Stephen and his friends will begin their journey at 7am at Shannon Harbour and will reach the Charlemont barge at around 1pm on Monday.
Stephen has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funding for the supports AsIAm provide and to donate click here
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