Tag Archives: palliative care unit

News

Eoghan Prepares For Run To Dingle In Memory Of Mom

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Eoghan Galvin with his late mother Anne.

A TRALEE man will take on a 45k run later this month to raise funds for two important local cancer support facilities.

On Thursday, May 25, Eoghan Galvin will set off from his home in Tralee to Dingle — via the Conor Pass — where he works in Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne as a PE and Irish teacher.

Eoghan is taking on the challenge in memory of his mother Anne O’Keeffe Galvin who passed away in 2016 after a battle with cancer. During her later years, she availed of two amazing services in Tralee — Kerry Cancer Support Group and the Palliative Care Unit in University Hospital Kerry.

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This is the second time Eoghan has fundraised for the two causes. Back in May 2020 he ran 200k in the month and raised an incredible €15,000.

This time he has already raised nearly €8,000, but he’s hoping people will still donate to raise as much as possible for the vital services.

You can find out more by visiting the idonate page by clicking on the following link https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/EoghanOGealbhain?fbclid=IwAR3DsO9120lvla7E7p_bUQwOM4yRq_I-22iVkUu-wKxF29J0SZKPa5Qth6g

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News

Charity Walk In Memory Of Betty Raises Over €26,000 For Kerry Hospice

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At the presentation of the cheque to the Palliative Care Unit at UHK on Tuesday, the proceeds of a fundraiser in memory of Betty McGrath, were Maura Sullivan of Kerry Hospice, Emer Hallissey, Clinical Nurse Manager 3, Mary Shanahan and Andrea O’Donoghue of Kerry Hospice and Ger O’Connor of the Palliative Care Unit. Photo by Dermot Crean

A HUGE amount of money was presented to the Kerry Hospice Foundation on Tuesday thanks to a fundraiser held in memory of an Ardfert woman.

A charity walk to remember Betty McGrath was held from the Junction Bar in Camp on Saturday, September 10 which saw a large crowd of family and friends of Betty take part.

Betty was known to many through her florist business in Listowel town. She passed away on September 14, 2021 in the Palliative Care Unit at UHK.

The family wanted to give something back after the amazing care she received and organised a charity walk which raised over €26,2030 on a gofundme page. The Moriarty and McGrath families thanked everyone for donating and taking part in the walk.

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News

Kerry Hospice Creates A Sunflower Garden At Palliative Care Unit

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In front; Maura Sullivan of Kerry Hospice with Clinical Nurse Manager at Palliative Care Unit Eilish Herlihy and at back, Health Care Assistant Sheila O’Connor, Mary Shanahan of Kerry Hospice, Health Care Assistant Thecla O’Connor and Andrea O’Donoghue of Kerry Hospice at the Sunflower Garden at the unit on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean

KERRY Hospice Foundation created a special garden at the grounds of the Palliative Care Unit at UHK to mark Sunflower Day yesterday.

The garden is part of a special fundraiser where people could make a donation and in return they would plant a sunflower card on your behalf, in memory of a loved one or just someone you are thinking of this time of year.

The fundraiser is still active until the end of June so you can access the idonate page by clicking here.

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“We have received some lovely messages in memory of loved onesand also many messages in support of the wonderful staff of the In-Patient Unit,Day Care Unit and the Home Care Team,” said a spokesperson for Kerry Hospice.

“Kerry Hospice would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for the support over the last number of years especially the last year which has been very difficult for many charities.”

News

Balloon Walk Fundraiser In Ballyheigue To Remember Loved Ones

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The launch of the Balloon Walk which takes place in Ballyheigue next Monday.

A SPECIAL event will take place on this Bank Holiday Monday on Ballyheigue Beach to raise funds for the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry.

The Memory Balloon Walk and Monster Raffle, which takes place at 4pm, is the brainchild of Natasha McCrohan.

“I wanted to do something special as a way of saying thank you to the Palliative Care unit for the care they gave my dad who recently passed away. The service that Palliative Care provide is invaluable,” said Natasha.

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Natasha’s father Maurice McCrohan passed away the beginning of April this year and following his death, Natasha along with her aunt Ann O’Leary and committee members Liz O Leary and Joe Burkett began planning an event to raise funds for Palliative Care.

Ann O’Leary said; “My sister-in-law Kitty Walsh passed away late last year and my father Noel Drury passed away this year and we as a family are so grateful to the staff and management of the Palliative Care for all the help and support they gave us during those difficult times that we felt we needed to give back to them. We settled upon the idea of a Balloon Memorial Walk as a way of honouring those who passed away.”

Notes of remembrance will be attached to the balloons and the walk will take place on Ballyheigue Beach. No balloons will be released during the event.

A memory balloon is €5 to purchase and they are available from Thats Perfect, Paco Tralee and Foleys Spar in Tralee; Bally Bargains, Costcutters and Colettes Hair Salon in Ballyheigue; Ross’ Centra and Sheehys Londis in Ballyduff and Hanleys Supermarket in Causeway.

For further information please follow Memory Balloon Walk for Palliative Care on Facebook. Social distancing will be in place on the day and all health and safety guidelines will be adhered to. The organisers thanked event sponsor Alan O’Sullivan of Bathrooms4U.

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An Afternoon With Roy Keane In Tralee To Raise Funds For Palliative Care Unit

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At the launch of the upcoming fundraiser in Ballygarry House Hotel in aid of the Kerry Hospice Foundation were Mark Fitzgerald, Marc Ó Sé, Roy Keane, Eoin Kelliher, Matthew Moloney and Michael McMahon.

NOT to be missed.

Roy Keane is coming to Tralee in April for an afternoon (and evening) of entertainment in aid of the Palliative Care Unit at UHK.

The Republic of Ireland and Manchester United legend is a ‘box office’ draw, especially since he became a pundit on Sky Sports and ITV giving his no-nonsense opinions and analysis.

His latest on-screen duals with Jamie Carragher have proved highly entertaining and we can be sure of more must-see TV when he appears on ‘The Late Late Show’ tomorrow night.

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On Friday, April 17, Roy will be in the Ballygarry House Hotel where there’ll be plenty of stories from his illustrious playing and managerial career told to host Matt Cooper of Today FM and Virgin Media TV fame.

The afternoon begins at 2pm with a prosecco reception followed by a four course meal including wine and an evening of entertainment with the legend. The event is sponsored by Kerry Group.

Speaking at the launch of the event, organising committee member Eoin Kelliher said, “Unfortunately every family in Kerry becomes touched by cancer at some point. However we are extremely lucky to have Palliative Care in Kerry. I have seen first-hand the incredible care and dedication of the staff and services of Palliative Care. It is a home from home for loved ones who are battling cancer. We are delighted to welcome Roy to Kerry in April and we are extremely grateful for his generosity. We would also like to thank Kerry Group who are our sponsor for the event. It is set to be the event of the year with all proceeds going directly to Palliative Care here in Tralee”.

It costs €1,000 for a table of ten and all proceeds raised go to Kerry Hospice Foundation. For tickets contact Joe Hennebery or Mary Shanahan on 066-7119070 or for general queries contact Eoin Kelliher of the organising committee on 087-2992392 or eoin.kelliher@ilfinpp.ie

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Donal’s Den Officially Opened At Palliative Care Unit

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At the opening of Donal’s Den at the Palliative Care Unit on Thursday last were, seated; Joe Hennebery, Fionnbar and Elma Walsh and Maura Sullivan. Back from left; John Sheehy, Dr Des McMahon, Emer Hallissey, Dr Patricia Sheahan, Mari O’Connell, McAtamney, Aine Moriarty, Maura Sullivan, Andrea O’Donoghue, and Joan Carmody.

A ROOM where teenagers can go to relax and take some time to themselves was officially  opened last Thursday at the Palliative Care In-patient Unit at University Hospital Kerry.

While the Unit opened in September of 2017, the staff decided to invite Elma and Fionnbar Walsh to the opening of ‘Donal’s Den’, named after their son who passed away in 2013 and who proved such an inspiration to others in his battle against cancer and his LiveLife message.

“It’s a great benefit to young people, as we hear all the time from people,” said Elma Walsh. “It’s usually the children or grandchildren of patients here, who can come and relax. That’s what Donal wanted as there were no facilities for teenagers when he was at the Unit.”

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Mari O’Connell, Director of Nursing at the Unit, said there was an art exhibition fundraiser some years ago before Donal passed away and the hospital bought a piece with Donal’s words; “I’ve climbed God’s mountain, faced many struggles. The only difference is that I’m looking from the mountain.”

The piece now takes pride of place in the room.

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Mari said the room has been a great comfort to the patients and it has been well utilised since it opened. The room has comfortable seating and games consoles — bought by O’Flynn’s Medical and through fundraising efforts by Andrea O’Donoghue — to entertain those who use the room.

Meanwhile, the Donal Walsh Foundation is organising a climb of Mount Brandon on Sunday, September 29. For more, check out the facebook page here

News

Tony’s Memorial Walk Raises Nearly €2,500

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Andrea O’Donoghue (left) presents a cheque for €2,425 to the Kerry Hospice. Also included is Aine Moriarty, Joe Hennebery, Joan Carmody and Maura Sullivan. Photo by Dermot Crean

IT was a day when the community came together to remember a much-loved Blennerville man and on Thursday the funds raised at the Tony O’Donoghue Walk were presented to Kerry Hospice Foundation.

Around 200 people came out in the sunshine on Saturday, September 7, to walk from then Windmill, out to Locke gates and back via Lohercannon.

Tony’s daughter Andrea was on hand at the Palliative Care Unit at UHK to present €2,425.

“It was a fabulous day and I’m delighted such an amount was raised. I want to thank everyone who came and especially the Moriarty family from Marian Park for their generous donation,” said Andrea.

The walk was started by St Pat’s football club a few weeks after Tony passed away five years ago to pay tribute to his contribution to the club which extended to 50 years both as a player and in the management team.

News

Over €2,000 Donated To Palliative Care Unit In Michael’s Memory

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Brenda Galvin (left) and Carmel Galvin (third from left) present at cheque to Joe Hennebery and Mary Shanahan of the Kerry Hospice Foundation at the Palliative Care Unit on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

A CHEQUE for €2,100 was presented to the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry on Thursday in memory of a south Kerry man who passed away last week.

Michael Galvin lost his battle against cancer on Wednesday last at the hospital, but family members — sister in law Carmel and his niece Brenda— were on hand to present half the proceeds from events at the annual St Crohan’s Festival in Castlecove back in July.

The other half of the proceeds were donated to the Irish Heart Foundation in memory of Jimmy Breen.

The presentation took place during the sixth annual Palliative Care Week taking place around the country from September 8 to 14.

The week aims to raise awareness of the difference palliative care can make to people with a life-limiting illness or condition, to carers and to families throughout the island of Ireland.

News

Two Fundraisers See Over €19,000 Presented To Kerry Hospice

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Mary Shanahan and Joe Hennebery of Kerry Hospice receive a cheque for €17,617 from Ger Bythell and the Wallace family at the Palliative Care Unit on Saturday.

TWO cheques totalling over  €19,000 were presented to Kerry Hospice over the past few days after a fundraising dance and a marathon run in Killarney.

Back in March, Ger Bythell took on the ‘Torcathon’ around Killarney’s Cardiac Steps and Torc mountain as a tribute to his sister, Ros Wallace, who passed away last November. Ros was originally from Cork, but settled in Killarney with her husband Alan and their children Rachel, Richard and David.

Ger wanted to do something after the amazing care she received at the Palliative Care Unit and set up a fundraising page for the event.

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People responded with amazing generosity and on Saturday he was at the unit to present a cheque for an incredible €17,617 to the Hospice.

Meanwhile, Killarney Macra Na Feirme presented a cheque of €1,500 in the inpatient Unit on Wednesday night, the proceeds of a dance they organised.

Macra Na Feirme chairman Conor Brosnan presented the cheque to chairman of Killarney Hospice Pat Doolan.

Kerry Hospice Foundation expressed their thanks to Macra and to Ger and friends for their efforts in helping out the Palliative Care Unit.

Representatives from Killarney Macra present a cheque to Pat Doolan and Mary Shanahan of Kerry Hospice on Wednesday night.
Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle, News

PHOTOS: Fashion Show And A Cuppa At Fundraiser In Guiney’s

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Making the tea during the fundraiser at Guiney’s on Friday morning were Eileen O’Mahony, Annemarie Murphy and Martina Gleeson. Photo by Dermot Crean

BEFORE the storm hit on Friday, staff from Guiney’s on Abbeycourt held a coffee/fashion morning in aid of the Palliative Care Unit.

Organised by Eileen O’Mahony and Alison McGaley, stylist Danny Leane of Annbury’s Boutique hosted a fashion show featuring outfits from his own store and Guiney’s.

There was free coffee/tea buns and scones which were availed of by people passing through and many made donations to the great cause. The ladies thanked everyone for contributing on a fun morning for all involved. Scroll down for photos…

Modelling an outfit from Guiney’s during the fundraiser at Guiney’s on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Modelling an outfit from Guiney’s during the fundraiser at Guiney’s on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Modelling an outfit from Guiney’s during the fundraiser at Guiney’s on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Alison McGaley models an outfit from Annbury’s during the fundraiser at Guiney’s on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Coffee/Fashion Morning At Guiney’s To Help Out Palliative Care Unit

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Eileen O’Mahony, Alison McGaley and Anne Aherne of Guiney’s Tralee looking forward to the fundraiser next Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean

HERE’S something to head along to next week if you’re in town.

The staff from Guiney’s on Abbeycourt are hosting a coffee/fashion morning on Friday, April 26 at 11am at the popular store in aid of the Palliative Care Unit.

Organised by Eileen O’Mahony and Alison McGaley, the ladies promise an entertaining morning with free coffee/tea buns and scones and all they ask for in return is a donation to the great cause.

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Eileen’s father-in-law passed away last year from cancer and she wanted to do something to give back to the Palliative Care Unit.

Stylist Danny Leane will also be present to give fashion tips and there will also be fashion show upstairs. It looks like a fun way for ladies to spend a Friday morning and help out Kerry Hospice.

News

Two Events Raise Over €16,000 For Kerry Hospice

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Representatives from the Coach Convoy presenting a cheque for €13,500 to Kerry Hospice Foundation on Thursday evening. From left; Maura Sullivan (KHF), Kathleen O’Connor, Carmel McCarthy, Anne Kennedy, Andrea O’Donoghue (KHF), Marian Kennedy and Bridie O’Connor (KHF). Photo by Dermot Crean

THE proceeds from two separate fundraisers were handed over to the Kerry Hospice Foundation on Thursday evening.

A coffee morning and a bus convoy trip to west Kerry raised €2,700 and €13,500 respectively, a huge boost for the palliative care unit facility.

Paula Silles has been holding the coffee morning event in her house near Ballygarry for 12 years now and the occasion in September was another massive success.

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Meanwhile, last weekend saw nine buses depart for a drive around Slea Head. Hundreds of passengers enjoyed a fantastic day out stopping along the way. They also enjoyed a tea dance in the Skellig Hotel.

“We’re absolutely thrilled with it,” said Marian Kennedy, one of the organisers. “Anne and Paddy from Kennedy Coaches are the ones who came up with the idea in the first place and we set out to raise between five and six thousands euro and maybe have five or six buses. But we ended up with nine buses and this amount of money and it’s still coming in!” she added.

“It was a brilliant day,” said Maura Sullivan of Kerry Hospice, who was on one of the buses. “There were also free guides on the buses so we learned stuff about 30 miles back the road that we didn’t know before.” She thanked everyone for donating on the day and the organising committee for putting on such a successful event.

The organisers wished to thank the musicians, guides, Skellig Hotel for subsidising the tea and refreshments, while the buses were provided free of charge by Kennedy Coaches, O’Sheas of Tralee, Buckley’s from Killarney, Goggins from Ballinskelligs and Flynn’s from Castlemaine.

News

Friends Raise Nearly €3,500 For Palliative Care Unit

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Jack Ferguson (second left), Tralee, presenting a cheque for €3,475  to the chairman Kerry Hospice Foundation Joe Hennebery, for the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry, proceeds from discos and collections. He is pictured with his friends who helped in the events, and collections, from left David O’Brien and Shane O’Sullivan. Missing from photo Tim Dennehy. Photo: John Cleary.

FOUR local men were at Kerry Hospice Foundation on Wednesday to present a cheque for €3,475 after a series of fundraisers over the past few months.

Jack Ferguson (DJ Fergie), David O’Brien, Tim Dennehy and Shane O’Sullivan took part in a Movember Challenge, while a number of DJ gigs around the county were also held to raise funds for the specialist palliative care unit.

Jack wanted to do something in memory of his aunt Maureen Harris who received great care in the In-Patient Unit.

Jack and the lads also had the pleasure of being interviewed by Maura and Daithi on the RTE Today show back in late November where the four guys had their moustaches shaved. It was a fantastic amount of money to raise and their intention is to continue with the fundraising for this very worthy cause.

News

Coffee Morning In Memory Of Máiréad Raises Over €1,000 For Kerry Hospice

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At the presentation of a cheque to Kerry Hospice on Tuesday were, from left; Mary Shanahan (Kerry Hospice), Rachel Gardiner, Joe Hennebery (Kerry Hospice), Claire Keyes and Jayne Roche. Photo by Dermot Crean

FRIENDS and colleagues of a young woman who passed away in the summer, raised over €1,000 for Kerry Hospice after they held a fundraising event in her memory.

Mairead Cussen was just 37 years old when she died at the Palliative Care Unit at UHK on July 27.

The married mother of two from Broadford worked at Enable Ireland in Mungret, Limerick city and her colleagues organised the coffee morning in late October in her memory.

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They raised €1,013.30 on the day and presented the cheque to Mary Shanahan and Joe Hennebery of Kerry Hospice on Tuesday at the Palliative Care Unit.

“It was a fantastic amount to raise from a coffee morning and we just want to thank the ladies for organising the event. Every donation counts,” said Joe.

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PHOTOS: Double Olympic Gold Medal Winner Visits Palliative Care Unit

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Kelly Holmes with occupational therapists Bridget Scannell and Siobhan O’Grady trying on her Olympic gold medals at the Palliative Care Unit on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE palliative care unit at UHK received a special visitor on Thursday as a double Olympic gold medal winner and athletics legend arrived with her medals.

Dame Kelly Holmes was invited to the unit by her friend Andrea O’Donoghue from Blennerville, who has organised numerous fundraisers for Kerry Hospice and the Unit.

Representing Great Britain, Kelly won a bronze medal in the 800m in the Sydney Olympics in 2000, two gold medals in the 800m and 1500m events at the Athens Olympics four years later, as well as many other honours in a glittering career on the track. She brought the medals along on her visit and some of the staff tried them on for size.

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Kelly was shown around by Andrea and the Director of Nursing, Marie O’Connell and she was very impressed with the facility and the grounds. She told us how the visit to Tralee came about.

“Andrea and I have been friends on Twitter for about five years now, enjoying a bit of banter and through her I found out about the unit here.  I promised I’d come over one day and it may have taken me a while, but I keep my promises so here I am!” said Kelly.

Andrea O’Donoghue and Kelly Holmes at the Palliative Care Unit.

Kelly knows all about the pain of losing someone to cancer and is a great supporter of hospice care.

“My mum passed away last year from Myeloma so I’m very connected with cancer charities and I’m patron of a local hospital in Kent where I live. I wanted to see the unit here as I had seen all the photos, from the beginning to the end of its construction.

“These [facilities] are so important for people, not just the patient but the family members around them, knowing that you have somewhere that will care for you and an environment where people understand. It looks lovely too, the garden looks beautiful — it’s a place of escape for the patients,” she said.

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Andrea O’Donoghue (front right) presents the proceeds of the Tony O’Donoghue Memorial Walk to Director of Nursing at the Palliative Care Unit, Marie O’Connell. Also included is Linda O’Connor, Bernie Daly, special guest visitor to the unit Kelly Holmes, Maura Casey, Jacinta O’Connor and Karen Ahern. Photo by Dermot Crean

The visit was also an opportunity for Andrea to present the proceeds of the charity walk in memory of her late father Tony which was held last weekend in Blennerville and eventually raised an amazing €2,404.

Andrea then set off with Kelly to show her the Conor Pass and Dingle, before heading to Killarney to attend a performance by Celtic Steps in the Gleneagle Hotel. We hope she enjoyed her visit and will return soon to the Kingdom!

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Walk To Remember Tony And Raise Funds For Palliative Care Unit

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Looking forward to the annual Tony O’Donoghue Memorial Walk this Saturday were, in front; Millie O’Brien, Ally Lynch and Aoife Burke. At back; Andrea O’Donoghue, Michael Ryle, Donal Brosnan, Mary O’Donoghue, Teresa O’Brien and Stephen Griffin. Photo by Dermot Crean

IF you fancy getting a bit of exercise on Saturday evening, then the annual Tony O’Donoghue Memorial Walk is for you.

Taking place from the Blennerville Windmill Car-Park at 5pm, the walk remembers Tony, a great stalwart of St Pat’s GAA Club who passed away in September of 2014.

Organised by Tony’s daughter Andrea, the walk has raised thousands of euro for the Palliative Care Unit over the years and Andrea is hoping families come out for a leisurely walk along the canal.

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“It’s a community walk and it’s very family orientated. It’s not quite the 5k — it’s from the Windmill car-park, back to the canal, towards the lock gates in by the ‘white wall’ in to lohercannon and back down to the windmill through Hare Street,” said Andrea.

“We’ll have food, refreshments and music in Quane’s afterwards and everyone who takes part will be entered for a draw for a signed Kerry jersey,” she added. A great way to spend a Saturday evening, for a wonderful cause.

News

Kerry Hospice Invites Public To See New Palliative Care Unit

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The new Palliative Care Unit at UHK.

THE Kerry Hospice Foundation and HSE are inviting the people of Kerry to come and view the New In Patient Unit on Friday, December 1st between 4pm and 7pm.

This is to give an opportunity to all who donated or helped in any way to come and see the results of their efforts.

Guided tours of the unit will be provided. Ted Moynihan, Chairman of the Kerry Hospice Foundation, said; “Many people have helped us to raise the funds for this building, now is your opportunity to join us and see how all your donations through the years have been put to good use”.

Kerry Hospice look forward to seeing all the friends and supporters of Kerry Hospice Foundation on Friday, December 1st between 4 and 7pm

News

Room For Young People At New Palliative Care Unit Fulfils Donal’s Wish

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Inside ‘Donal’s Den’, a special room in the new 15-bed specialist palliative in-patient unit at University Hospital Kerry, were Elma Walsh, former Rose of Tralee Elysha Brennan, Kate Brennan and Valerie Kerins on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE wonderful new Palliative Care Unit was officially opened last Friday at University Hospital Kerry and among its many great facilities is a new space for younger people.

‘Donal’s Den’ is a room funded by the Donal Walsh ‘LiveLife’ Foundation and Fionnbar and Elma Walsh were at the unit to see the room, which fulfilled a request Donal had for the new unit.

“When Donal was in palliative care, there were no facilities for teenagers, even when he went to Marymount in Cork,” said Elma.

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“The one thing that he asked was that there would be teenage facilities brought into the new hospice here in Tralee. So the Foundation has donated €80,000 to help the Hospice and to include a teenage facility,” she said.

The room has beanbags, a large TV and there are more facilities to go in there soon.

“If there is a teenage patient here they could bring their friends down there to hangout and have a pizza or something,” said Elma.

Elma showed former Rose of Tralee, Elysha Brennan, herself a former Cancer sufferer, around the room on Friday and she was impressed with Donal’s Den and the unit as a whole.

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Cyclists To Set Off On Fundraiser From New Palliative Care Unit

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Bewley’s Employees Gear Up for Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice. The Bewley’s cycle team, Charlie Scully, Joe Hann Davis, Mark Saunders – Brand Director at Bewley’s and Jason Doyle.

THIS Friday sees six Bewley’s employees set off from Tralee on a 500km cross country cycle to raise much needed funds for Hospices nationwide.

It’s all part of Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice Together with Bewley’s which takes place on Thursday 14th September.

The cycle kicks off on the September 1 in a bid to raise €7,000 for local hospice care and finishes four days later in Dublin.

Over the four days the six strong cycle team will visit seven hospices across the country. The team will leave the newly built Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry on Friday 1st with their sights firmly set on their second stop in Milford Hospice, Limerick.

Further stops at Cahercalla Hospice in Clare, Galway Hospice and the Offaly Hospice make up their trip before they cycle through Dublin city finishing up with visits to Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services in Harold’s Cross and finally St. Francis’ Hospice in Raheny, Bewley’s own local hospice.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice Together with Bewley’s and over €34 million has been raised for Hospice since the first coffee morning was held in 1993.

Hospices and home cares across Ireland provide palliative care to patients who are chronically ill, terminally ill or suffering from a serious illness. The money raised from the Bewley’s cycle and Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice Together with Bewley’s will go towards essential services such as homecare nurses, new equipment and development of new hospice care facilities.

For those interested in hosting a coffee morning to help raise funds for their local hospice, you can register at www.hospicecoffeemorning.com. Bewley’s provides the coffee to each host free of charge and this coffee will be provided to you after you register online. You can also contact your local hospice by calling 1890 998 995.

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PHOTOS: Roses Pay A Visit To Palliative Care Unit

TraleeToday.ie’s coverage of the Rose of Tralee International Festival is brought to you by AIB Tralee…

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Patient Marie Kelly and Nurse Aine Moriarty meet the Roses at the Palliative Care Unit of UHK on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean

A NUMBER of Rose of Tralee contestants paid a visit to the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry on Friday morning.

They met staff and patients to hear about the amazing work that goes at the facility and the new 15 bed unit which will open next month.

Arizona Rose Lauren Koll had an interesting chat with patient 91 year old Marie O’Carroll from Connolly Park, who spent many years in the US, including some time in Arizona where her late husband, William, was stationed as a meteorologist with the US Air Force.

The Roses posed for photos and spent time with patients and learned more about the facility before heading off to another engagement. Scroll down for photos…

Marie O’Carroll meets Sligo Rose Lisa Maloney and Arizona Rose Lauren Koll at the Palliative Care Unit of UHK on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Longford Rose Laura Ward with escorts Joseph Meehan and Thomas Lynch and Maura Sullivan and Bridie O’Connor at the Palliative Care Unit of UHK on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Margaret Crean, Sligo Rose Lisa Maloney, Mairead Fernane and Mary Shanahan at the Palliative Care Unit of UHK on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Roses meet patients and staff and Kerry Hospice members at the Palliative Care Unit of UHK on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Kerry Rose Launches Balloon Fundraiser In Aid Of Palliative Care Unit

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Launching the Balloon Fundraiser in aid of the Palliative Care Centre were Ted Moynihan and Mairead Fernane of Kerry Hospice, Kerry Rose Breda O’Mahony and Mary Shanahan of Kerry Hospice. Photo by Dermot Crean

A FUNDRAISER started by a former Rose of Tralee will return this year to help the Palliative Care Unit which opens in October.

Kerry Hospice  volunteers will return to the Town Park again this year on Sunday, August 20 to launch balloons to remember loved ones who have survived or passed on from cancer.

Rose of Tralee 2015 Elysha Brennan started the fundraiser last year to remember an Abbeydorney woman, Helen O’Connor Roche, whom she met on a visit to the Palliative Care Unit in the lead up to being crowned Rose of Tralee back in 2015. Sadly, Helen passed away in January 2016.

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The event was a huge success last year, despite poor weather, and organisers are hoping the public lends its support again this year.

Balloons will be on sale on the Sunday in the Town Park and attached to the balloon will be a card on which  people can write a message to  support their loved ones or to  send a message  ‘Over the  Rainbow’ to remember their loved ones.

The event will be MC’d by a member of the Festival and the 2016 Rose of Tralee,  Maggie McEldowney will be on hand to help release the balloons. All funds raised will go towards the new 15 bed unit at University Hospital Kerry.

News

Midsummer Ball Raises Over €10,500 For Palliative Care Centre

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At the presentation of a cheque to the Palliative Care Centre on Thursday morning, the proceeds of the Midsummer Ball, were, Maura Sullivan, Marie O’Connell, Patricia Sheahan, Andrea O’Donoghue, Ted Moynihan, Aileen Cotter Diggins and Mary Shanahan. Photo by Dermot Crean

WITH two months to go until the opening of the new Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry, Kerry Hospice Foundation received another boost on Thursday when they were presented with a large cheque.

The money was raised at a Midsummer’s Ball at the Rose Hotel on June 9, with Miriam O’Callaghan as special guest for the evening along with RTE colleague and Kerry native Katie Hannon.

There was over 140 people in attendance at the €80 a head event and — after costs — the event raised €10,502 which was presented to Ted Moynihan of Kerry Hospice at the new centre.

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Ted was very grateful to the organisers, Andrea O’Donoghue and Aileen Cotter Diggins, and said the new Palliative Care Centre is set to open on September 22, with an open day planned for September 29. The gardens around the building are looking great as you can see…

The gardens at the new Palliative Care Centre. Photo by Dermot Crean
The gardens at the new Palliative Care Centre. Photo by Dermot Crean
News

Miriam O’Callaghan Launches Midsummer’s Charity Ball In The Rose Hotel

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Madeline Doyle, Aileen Diggins, Miriam O’Callaghan, Andrea O’Donoghue, Mark Sullivan, Aine Moriarty and Linda McMahon at the launch of the Midsummer’s Ball at the Rose Hotel on Wednesday. Photo by Lisa O’Mahony.

THERE’LL be some well-known faces gracing a charity ball in the Rose Hotel this June with some great prizes to be won.

The Midsummer’s Ball in aid of the Palliative Care Unit at UHK will take place on June 9, at the hotel and Miriam O’Callaghan was in town on Wednesday night to launch the event.

She will be one of the special guests in June along with fellow RTE journalist and Kerry native Katie Hannon.

It will be a formal dress occasion, where guests will be welcomed with a champagne reception. Music will be provided by The Disagreements, which will be followed by a disco.

All funds raised from the event will be going to Kerry Hospice and the Palliative Care Unit.

Fantastic spot prizes like jolphers signed by a number of jockeys, has been donated by Jack Kennedy as well as a pair of gloves signed by Katie Taylor. The Quality Framing Company in Tralee framed both free of charge for the event.

Tickets at €80 are on sale now, just contact organisers Andrea O’Donoghue at 087 6413449, or Aileen Diggins at 087 1202010.

Entertainment, WHAT'S ON

A Night Of Music For A Great Cause At Fenit Bar

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West End Bar, Fenit.

THE West End Bar in Fenit is hosting an evening of trad music on this Sunday, November 20 to raise funds for the Palliative Care Unit of Kerry General Hospital.

The Spa Fenit branch of Kerry Hospice Foundation will be launching their 2017 Calendar on the night. There will be lots of local musicians to entertain us including Willie Kelly, Ken Holmes, Danny Goggins and the Daltons, to name but a few.

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There will also be finger food provided and a raffle with fabulous prizes will also be held in aid of this worthy cause.  Music from 6pm. Come along to enjoy the craic, it promises to be one of the highlights of the social calendar.

News

An Post Workers Raise €2,500 For Palliative Care Unit In Memory Of Late Colleague

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Workers from An Post presented a cheque for €2,500 to the Kerry Hospice for the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry. Pictured is Ted Moynihan accepting the cheque from Mike O'Callaghan from AN Post at Stoker's Lodge on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
(click photo to enlarge) Workers from An Post presented a cheque for €2,500 to the Kerry Hospice for the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry. Pictured is Ted Moynihan accepting the cheque from Mike O’Callaghan from AN Post at Stoker’s Lodge on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

A GREAT effort by the workers in An Post in memory of a late colleague raised €2,500 for the new palliative care unit at University Hospital Kerry.

The workers took to the town centre to sing Christmas carols with local musicians and  they entertained shoppers.

Mike O’Callaghan said they were delighted to raise funds for the new Palliative Care Unit especially as a colleague of theirs, Jerome O’Leary, had passed away from cancer in the autumn of last year.

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“We collected €2,500 over two days. We did about five hours in total, so €500 an hour isn’t bad for a group of fellas who can’t sing!” said Mike. “It was all because of Jerome who passed away in October. That was why we chose the palliative care unit this year,” said Mike.

Ted Moynihan of Kerry Hospice, was very appreciative of the efforts of An Post workers.

“We appreciate what ye did going out in the bad weather before Christmas,” said Ted, who explained that the new building will cost €6.2m to build and it’s all made possible due to the fundraising that is done around the county.

News

Sod Turned On €6.2m New In-Patient Palliative Care Unit

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Chairperson of Kerry Hospice Foundation, Ted Moynihan, turns the sod at the new in-patient palliative care unit at Kerry General Hospital. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Chairperson of Kerry Hospice Foundation, Ted Moynihan, turns the sod at the new in-patient palliative care unit at Kerry General Hospital. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

IT was a joyous afternoon at Kerry General Hospital as chairperson of the Kerry Hospice Foundation, Ted Moynihan, turned the sod on the planned new in-patient palliative care unit.

Work can now begin on the €6.2m project which will have 15 in patient beds en-suite rooms. The turning of the sod also marks 25 years of the Kerry Hospice Foundation, where in that time they raised €12m for cancer patients in the county.

Minister Jimmy Deenihan praised the work done by the Kerry Hospice Foundation, which is an entirely voluntary organisation who raised funds for the new unit with the help of charity initiatives.

“This is a really special day for Ted Moynihan and all the people who fund raised with him for the last 25 years,” said Minister Deenihan.

“It’s a great day for Kerry, this was done with Kerry money, being built by Kerry builders and Kerry architects and no doubt Kerry craftspeople working on site as well,” he said.

Ted Moynihan, thanked the people of Kerry for their ongoing support and generosity, “Without them it wouldn’t be possible,” he said, leaving with this thought; “I hope that any of you won’t need the hospice, but the hospice will always need you.”

Scroll down for photos…

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At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: Nuala Finnagan, Ursella O'Connell, Marie Claire Stacey, Denis Mannix and Ted Moynihan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: Nuala Finnegan, Ursula O’Connell, Marie Claire Stacey, Denis Mannix and Ted Moynihan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
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At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: David Buckley, Treasa O'Dononvan, Monica Sheehan, Christy O'Connell and Tom McEllistrim. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: David Buckley, Treasa O’Donovan, Monica Sheehan, Christy O’Connell and Mayor of Tralee Tom McEllistrim. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: Andrea O'Donoghue, Aileen Diggins, Linda McMahon, Mary Nolan, Carina Kelliher, Aina Moriarty and Mary Quinlihan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the turning of the sod at the in-patient palliative care unit were, from left: Andrea O’Donoghue, Aileen Diggins, Linda McMahon, Mary Nolan, Carina Kelliher, Aine Moriarty and Mary Quinlivan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
Health&Fitness, News

Ray And Joe Raise Over €16,000 For Palliative Care Unit

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AS the shadow of The Ring of Kerry cycle looms large for countless participants, this story of two men who did almost the equivalent of five Ring of Kerry cycles in five days will put Saturday’s cycle into perspective.

Joe Moriarty and Ray Moynihan, cycled a total of 750k in five days, in the process conquering the Pyrenees mountains, which straddle the French and Spanish border and raising €16,571 for the Palliative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital.

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Joe Moriarty and Ray Moynihan, handing over a cheque to the Paliative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital, from left: Mairead Moriarty, Margaret O'Shea, Joe Moriarty, Ray Moynihan, Ted Moynihan, Marie O'Connell, Marie McSwiney and Noreen O'Leary. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Joe Moriarty and Ray Moynihan, handing over a cheque for the Palliative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital, on the site where preparation work for the new Unit has begun, from left: Mairead Moriarty, Margaret O’Shea, Joe Moriarty, Ray Moynihan, Ted Moynihan, Marie O’Connell, Marie McSwiney and Noreen O’Leary. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

“Some days were more difficult than others, some of the climbs were quite difficult, but we managed ok,” said Joe Moriarty.

In total, the pair cycled 34 hours over five days, which is around seven hours in the saddle each day. They were not hanging about either – the pair clocked up an average speed of 20-22kph. Part of the route they took is used in the Tour of Spain, one of the prestigious ‘Grand Tours’ of cycling.

The money raised will go towards an extension to the Palliative Care in KGH, which is currently out for tender.

“We decided to raise the money for Palliative Care on the basis of the great work they are doing and primarily for the great work they have planned over the next 12 months or so,” said Joe Moriarty.

Preparation work has already began on the site of the extension. Work on the new building, which will bring with it 15 new beds is expected to begin in a couple of months time.

“The new building is vital,” said Ted Moynihan of the Kerry Hospice Foundation. “At the moment, up to ten patients or maybe more are in the hospital who should be in this kind of a unit. It’s not fair on them or their families, so the new building will make a huge difference to people,” said Ted.

Total costs of the work is set to be between €5.5m and €6m. The facility will have 15 in patient beds en-suite rooms.

News

VIDEO/PHOTOS: Over 100 Take To Roads In Tralee For Good Friday Hospice Walk

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At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Helen Heaslip, Marian O'Mahony, Marian Leen, Mary O'Callaghan and dog Rusty, Mary O'Leary and Phil Sexton. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Helen Heaslip, Marian O’Mahony, Marian Leen, Mary O’Callaghan and dog Rusty, Mary O’Leary and Phil Sexton. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

THE Gods smiled upon the crowd taking part in the annual Good Friday walk in aid of Kerry Hospice.

Over 100 people took part in the walk from the Brandon Hotel at 10am this morning. The rain stayed away as families made their way around the  route in what has become a great tradition over the years.

It was just one of many walks taking place around the county in aid of the new Palliative Centre at Kerry General Hospital, where the sod is expected to be turned in June or July at a cost of around €5.5m.

The Kerry Hospice won’t be taking in terms of fundraising, as they have to come up with €400,000 a year for the first five years for staffing.

Scroll down for a very short video of the start of the wall and photos below…

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At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Tracy Moore, Siobhain Hilliard, Margaret Mansfield and dog Jack, Liliy Moore and Margaret Culloty. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Tracy Moore, Siobhain Hilliard, Margaret Mansfield and dog Jack, Lily Moore and Margaret Culloty. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left, in front: Noah Fealey. Back: Mary Corkery, Caroline Reidy, Michelle Fealey, lorraine O'Donnell, Casey O'Donnell and Phil O'Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left, in front: Noah Fealy. Back: Mary Corkery, Caroline Reidy, Michelle Fealy, Lorraine O’Donnell, Casey O’Donnell and Phil O’Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Helen Toomy, Stefanie Driscoll, Paula Maurice and Kevin Foal. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Helen Twomey, Stephanie Driscoll, Paula Morris and Kevin Foal. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Graham Predergast, William Cleary, David Prendergast and Micheal Fox O'Connor. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Graham Prendergast, William Cleary, David Prendergast and Micheal Fox O’Connor. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Paul Costello and Matthew Carmody. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Paul Costello and Matthew Carmody. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Kay McNamara, Anna Hayes and Emily Hayes. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Kay McNamara, Anna Hayes and Emily Hayes. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Grace, Terry, Eimear, Margaret and Sarah Kemple. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Grace, Terri, Eimear, Margaret and Sarah Kemple. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left, front: Luke and Ciara O'Mahony. Back: Joe, Aine, Amy and Jenny O'Mahony. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left, front: Luke and Ciara O’Mahony. Back: Joe, Aine, Amy and Jenny O’Mahony. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Dan Galvin, Brenda O'Connell, Mary Hartnett and Maura O'Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the annual Kerry Hospice Walk were, from left: Dan Galvin, Brenda O’Connell, Mary Hartnett and Maura O’Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

 

News, SCHOOLS

Mounthawk Teachers v Students Match Raises Money For Palliative Care Unit

 

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The students and teachers who took part in the charity game last week.

THERE was a chance for students of Mercy Mounthawk to get a bit of revenge back on teachers for all that homework, when they held an indoor soccer match in aid of the Palliative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital last week.

The students and staff raised €200 for the charity which was presented to Ted Moynihan of the Kerry Hospice on Tuesday.

“It was such an enjoyable event, all in the name of a local charity. Our active school’s committee did a great job organising it,” said Mercy Mounthawk teacher, Olivia Dineen.

Along with raising money for a vital local service, students, also held the novelty soccer match in order to capture an ‘Active Schools Flag’ for Mercy Mounthawk.

For the game, students organised music, a ‘Golden Boot’ award and plaques for players on the winning team.

The Palliative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital support patients and their families from county Kerry with advanced diseases requiring palliative care to attain the best quality of life.

At the cheque handover from money raised by the Mercy Mounthawk, Students v Teachers, Mark Maloney,Giles Appleby Back Megan Kennedy, Gavin Kennedy,Keith O'Flaherty,Ted Moynihan,Kerry Hospice,Olivia Dineen (teacher), Michael Daly,Mary Ann Sullivan, Donagh O'Brien
At the cheque handover from money raised by the Mercy Mounthawk, Students v Teachers soccer match, front row, from left: Mark Maloney and Giles Appleby. Back row: Megan Kennedy, Gavin Kennedy, Keith O’Flaherty, Ted Moynihan (Chairperson of the Kerry Hospice Foundation), Micheal Daly, Olivia Dineen (Teacher), Mary Ann Sullivan and Donagh O’Brien.
News

Miriam To Wax Lyrical With GAA Legends At Charity Night

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FIVE Kerry legends of the past and present are set to have their legs waxed all in aid of the Kerry Hospice Palliative Care unit in Kerry General Hospital.

The event called ‘Kerry Stars Lovely Legs Competition’ will take place on September 27, at Fels Point Hotel and kicks off at 8pm.

On the night RTE’s Miriam O’Callaghan will be there to interview Kerry legends, Sean Walsh, Bomber Liston, Kieran Donaghy, Marc O’Se and Ogie Moran, while they get their legs waxed for this good cause.

The person behind the event is Andrea O’Donoghue, who recently lost her father Tony to cancer.

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“What the staff do in the Palliative Care unit goes above and beyond what you would think, they don’t get the recognition they should, but they don’t look for it either,” said Andrea.

“I’d often heard about the Palliative Care Unit, but it’s not until you go there and you see what they do, it’s amazing. They are like angels walking around on the Earth. You don’t realise until you go through it the incredible work they do, they make a person’s last days liveable,” said Andrea.

“It was no bother getting Miriam O’Callaghan and the players together, they were all very eager to do it,” said Andrea.

After all the legs have been waxed there will be a sports memorabilia auction. Andrea’s dad, Tony O’Donoghue, was a trustee and stalwart of St Pat’s GAA club, so sport was very close to his heart.

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One of the items at the auction will be a pair of jockey pants signed by some of the best jockeys in Ireland and Britain, including legendary names such as Ruby Walsh and A.P McCoy. The pants was donated by Tralee’s very own Bryan Cooper who had the A-list jockeys sign it at this year’s Galway races.

Other items include a signed Kerry jersey by this year’s team and signed jerseys of both finalists of this year’s All-Ireland Hurling final, Kilkenny and Tipperary. Tony, despite being born and bred in Kerry, was an avid Kilkenny hurling fan.

To round off a great night there will be a band followed by a DJ. Tickets cost €10.

For more information, check out the ‘Kerry Stars Lovely Legs Competition’ Facebook event page (Click Here)

At the launch of 'Kerry Stars Lovely Legs Competition' in aid of the Palative Care Unit in Tralee General Hospital were, from left: Denis Moran, Andrea O'Donoghue, Eoin Liston, Riona Kennedy and Ger Power. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the launch of ‘Kerry Stars Lovely Legs Competition’ in aid of the Kerry Hospice Palative Care Unit in Kerry General Hospital were, from left: Denis ‘Ogie’ Moran, Andrea O’Donoghue, Eoin ‘Bomber’ Liston, Riona Kennedy and Ger Power. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.