When Mary McSwiggan's minivan was struck by a tractor trailer that ran a red light at the intersection of Lakeshore Boulevard and Sunrise Highway, nearly every bone in her body was broken. Mary, a wife and mother of four was on her way to work at North Shore University Hospital, where she is a nurse, when the accident occurred. Last Thursday, the Irish community sponsored a benefit at Jackie Reilly's Irish Pub in Bethpage to raise funds to help with McSwiggan's medical expenses. Family, friends, and neighbors came out in full force to help the McSwiggan family during this tough time.

The benefit was organized by the Saffron Kilts Pipe Band, of which McSwiggan's husband Kevin and son, Kevin Jr. are members. The Saffron Kilts are affiliated with the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 2, based in Babylon.

Besides Kevin Jr., a senior at Massapequa High School, Mary and Kevin have three other children, Tara, a freshman at Massapequa High School, Caitlin, an eighth grader at Berner Junior High School, and Sean, who is 2 years old.

The benefit, which was chaired by Kerry Brennan, a member of the Saffron Kilts, was planned to help the McSwiggan family through what is most likely going to be a long and extensive recovery process.

In spite of the seriousness behind the fund raiser, it turned into a massive party, which was attended by several hundred people. The Tara Pipe Band, based in Massapequa Park, played early on in the evening, followed later on by the Saffron Kilts themselves. Those gathered also were able to enjoy the Irish music played by Mike Crowley, as well as the entertainment of Irish Step Dancers. Comedienne Jackie G. also entertained the crowd for what she described as "a great cause."

Jackie Reilly's was chosen as the location for the benefit, not only because it was an Irish Pub but because the owners, Sean Reilly and Sean Harrington have known the Brennans who were very involved in this event for many years. Jackie Reilly's has held several benefits for worthwhile causes in the two years it has been open.

Funds were raised not only by the money collected at the door, but through raffles sold and donations from the community.

Those who would like further information or would like to still make a contribution may contact Kerry Brennan by mail: Kerry Brennan, Attention McSwiggan Fund, 2242 Willow St., Wantagh NY 11793; by phone 785-8479; or by e-mail: Kbrennan317@msn.com.