Sincere gratitude for a remarkable donation of over €24,000 to St. Vincent’s Foundation in memory of Marian Redmond

30th June 2023

Staff at St. Vincent’s University Hospital and St. Vincent’s Foundation extend their heartfelt appreciation to Damy Redmond, his sister Lisa, and Laoise Traynor for their outstanding donation of just over €24,000. This generous contribution was made possible through their inspiring fundraising initiative, which saw them embark on a 75km run from St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) to Arklow, honouring the memory of their beloved Mam and mother-in-law, Marian Redmond.

On the 15th of April at 4.45 am, Damy Redmond and Laoise Traynor embarked on the challenging journey, which held deep significance for Damy and Laoise, as it represented “running their mam home.” Accompanied by Lisa, Damy’s husband Alan, and Shona, Marian’s only grandchild, they persevered through the demanding distance, completing the run by 2pm—an awe-inspiring accomplishment.

To raise funds and provide support for families facing similar challenges, Damy, Lisa, and Laoise established an iDonate page. Motivated by their personal experience of navigating cancer, they sought to alleviate the hardships faced by families going through this arduous journey. Their aim was to enhance the comfort and well-being of patients and their loved ones during their time in the hospital.

Originally setting a target of €5,000, the response to their campaign has been overwhelming, reaching an awe-inspiring total of €24,095. Their unwavering dedication and the generosity of all those who donated will make a profound impact on the lives of many. A special mention to the Bog Meadow Crew, who joined Lisa and Laoise in running the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon raising €2045 of the total donation.

The funds raised will be used to purchase essential items, such as a microwave for the ward, providing families with the means to prepare food and special pull-out beds for families to sleep in, offering them a more comfortable stay while supporting their loved ones. Damy, Lisa, and Laoise hope this will help alleviate some of the guilt and concerns patients may have about their families’ stay. By creating a more comforting and homely environment, they aspire to provide solace and respite during these difficult times.

Bravely sharing their personal story through cancer and the motivation behind their fundraising efforts, Damy said, “Our Mam was a true fighter, defying the odds every step of the way. Throughout her battle with cancer, she displayed immense courage, strength, and an unwavering will to live. She touched the lives of so many, including the dedicated staff at St. Vincent’s University Hospital’s St. Anne’s Ward and St. Monica’s Ward, who cared for her during her final months. Their compassion and kindness will forever be etched in our hearts.

The staff’s support was even more crucial during the challenging times of the pandemic when visiting restrictions prevented us from being by our Mam’s side. Their constant care and communication meant the world to us, easing our burden and allowing us to cherish the good moments amidst the difficulties.

Our Mam fought hard to stay with us, and we are immensely proud of her. Although we couldn’t grant her wish to return home, she passed away peacefully in our arms at SVUH. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr Claire Andrews, Consultant Haematologist and all the dedicated and compassionate staff at St. Vincent’s University Hospital who cared for our Mum. Their dedication, tireless efforts and kindness made an immeasurable difference in our journey and will always be remembered.”

John Hickey, CEO of St. Vincent’s Foundation, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the organisation, stating, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Damy Redmond, Lisa, and Laoise Traynor for their outstanding contribution to St. Vincent’s Foundation. Their selfless efforts and determination will make a tremendous difference in the lives of families affected by cancer. We are truly grateful for their commitment to our cause.”

Dr. Clare Andrews, Consultant Haematologist at St. Vincent’s University Hospital who cared for Marian echoed this sentiment, emphasising the invaluable impact of their donation. “On behalf of SVUH, I extend my deepest thanks to Damy, Lisa, and Laoise for their exceptional donation. The funds raised will be put to excellent use in providing support and comfort to families who have loved ones receiving treatment at our hospital.”

SVUH and St. Vincent’s Foundation commends Damy & Lisa Redmond, and Laoise Traynor for their incredible efforts and thanks them for their selfless dedication to helping families affected by cancer. Their compassion and generosity are an inspiration to us all.