In a remarkable display of determination and compassion, three women from Mallow are preparing for an inspiring charity cycling journey, aiming to raise vital funds and awareness for the Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) while also marking its 40th anniversary year. Regina Glynn, Mary Magner and Bridget Barton are aiming to cycle a challenging 570km coast-to-coast Adriatic to Mediterranean route from Venice to Savona across Northern Italy. The three cyclists will embark on this epic challenge from June 26th to July 3rd to support the crucial work the Irish Hospice Foundation does to provide palliative care, bereavement support, overnight care and end-of-life services across Ireland
The three friends, all passionate about giving back to their community, are taking on this incredible challenge in honour of those who have been affected by terminal illnesses. With a shared commitment to making a difference, Regina, Mary and Bridget hope to raise significant funds to assist the Irish Hospice Foundation in continuing its mission to offer compassionate care to those facing life-limiting conditions.
The journey will see the trio on the saddle for six hours a day traversing diverse landscapes in Northern Italy, undulating terrain along with the high Italian ‘hills’ and mountains testing their physical and mental endurance. Over the course of five days, they will cycle through picturesque countryside, bustling cities and tranquil towns, all while raising awareness about the importance of hospice care in Ireland.
Ahead of their journey, Regina, Mary, and Bridget are hosting a fundraising event in Mallow on Saturday, March 14th. The event will include a bucket collection at several locations around the town to encourage donations from the local community, as well as a Spinathon where participants can join in on stationary bikes for a fun, fitness-focused way to show their support. The ladies are hoping the Mallow fundraiser will help generate significant support for the Irish Hospice Foundation as they prepare for their cycle.
“Cycling from the Adriatic Coast to the Mediterranean Coast is no small feat, but we are motivated by the knowledge that the funds we raise will help people in need of end-of-life care,” said Regina. “We are incredibly proud to be supporting the Irish Hospice Foundation, an organisation celebrating its 40th year supporting so many families across the country and one that I have been involved with for over a decade.”
The group is aiming to help the foundation fund vital services, including home care, family support, and bereavement services. Their efforts also highlight the importance of public awareness and understanding of palliative care, which can often be overlooked in society.
Bridget added, “It’s not just about the cycle for us. It’s about creating conversations around the importance of quality end-of-life care, helping to ensure that no one faces the end of their journey alone or in pain. We also want to highlight the free Bereavement Support Helpline (1800 807077) provided by the Irish Hospice Foundation and the HSE which supports people who are grieving and in need of comfort and support.”
The trio are receiving an outpouring of support from their friends, family, and local communities, and they have set up an online fundraising platform where people can donate to the cause (https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/regina-mary-bridget-cycle-500km11). With training well underway, the women are ready to take on the challenge, knowing their hard work will help make a significant difference in the lives of others.
As they prepare for the cycle, Mary reflects on the meaning behind their journey: “This is our way of saying ‘Thank You’ to the Hospice staff who provide almost 3,000 nights of care every year – Nurses for Night Care is a free at home night nursing service for patients diagnosed with cancer and other terminal illnesses. It’s a small gesture compared to all the work they do, but it’s our way of giving back.”
To follow their journey or donate to the Irish Hospice Foundation, visit their fundraising iDonate www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/regina-mary-bridget-cycle-500km11. Additionally, join them for their fundraiser in Mallow on March 14th to show your support and contribute to this amazing cause.
In the words of the founder of the modern hospice movement Cicely Saunders “You matter because you are you, and you matter to the end of life. We will do all we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die”