The proud mother of two young sisters who have raised an astonishing €28,000 through a novel 10km Walk/Run has thanked the local community for the phenomenal support received.
When the Roscommon People spoke with Caitriona McDonnell on Wednesday afternoon, her pride in her daughters’ wonderful initiative was clear. As was Caitriona’s appreciation for the great generosity of so many people.
Caitriona and her daughters, Eloise (8) and Lucia (10) live in Kilmovee, Co. Mayo. The girls attend Ballyfeeney NS in Co. Roscommon, where their mum is Principal.
Earlier this year, due to Covid-19, the annual Kilmovee 5k/10k was called off. Eloise was due to make her First Holy Communion last Saturday, but that big event was also postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions.
However, last Saturday, the girls undertook their own Kilmovee 10k. Eloise wore her sister’s First Communion Dress for the duration of the walk/run!
Caitriona explained that her daughters took on the challenge in memory of their late Dad, and as a fundraiser for Roscommon/Mayo Hospice. Their father, Michael McDonnell, passed away in 2012, from a brain tumour, when Eloise was just seven months old. Each year since, the girls have presented the Michael McDonnell Memorial Shield at the annual 10km. Now the girls will be making their own presentation of funds to Mayo/Roscommon Hospice, in memory of their much-loved Dad.
Caitriona said the response of locals was amazing. “When the girls were on the route, neighbours were out cheering them on, providing refreshments, and support. As we speak, the project had raised €28,000 for the Hospice. We are blown away. We were hoping to maybe reach €1,000! The response has been overwhelming”.
Caitriona says: “Eloise means strength, and Lucia means light. We hope to bring some strength and light to those who need it and we will be forever grateful for the kindness and compassion shown to our family in 2012”.
The proud mum concluded: “I am so proud of the girls, and so grateful for the support. I think it’s given the whole community such a lift”.
