My Two Left Feet

Some people were just born to dance…

From their fevered fingertips to the little piggies on their dancing feet, they got rhythm, they got music…

Who could ask for anything more…?

Well, if you’re Rob Lawless, plenty, if the video below is anything to go by.

Preparing for Strictly Come Dancing For Dementia 2017 – which takes place next Saturday, May 13th at the Talbot Hotel in Stillorgan – Rob and partner Nicola are doing the two-step to Elton John’s I’m Still Standing, as they join other dancing fools out to raise money for St Joseph’s in Shankill and their plans to build Ireland’s first Dementia Village.

“I’ll be the first to admit, I shouldn’t be attempting this kind of dancing,” says Rob, “and I really, really had to be convinced to join. The funny thing is, it’s been incredible. The fun of learning these new steps, especially with someone like Nicola, has made it something I look forward to. Even if there’s every chance that I’m going to land flat on my arse at any given moment.

“It’s all worth it, of course, because not only is it fun, but it’s for a great cause too. There’s also the extra-added bonus that there are plenty of other people around me who might just land flat on their arse at any given moment too…”

Among those going up against Rob on the big night will be his sister, Elaine, who works at Saint Joseph’s. The pair are taking part in the Strictly competition largely in tribute their late father, Ed, who lost his short battle with dementia in 2015.

There’s no doubt Ed would be proud of his kids. Even if they dance like this…

You can help Rob raise some much-needed money for Ireland’s first Dementia Village by sponsoring his big night right here. And you can find out more about the big night itself here.