This year’s West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon inspired many heartfelt tributes, with participants running in memory of loved ones. Among them was a special tribute to the late Karen McGowan Higgins.
Karen was a valued colleague at CMS Distribution in Kiltimagh and a cherished friend to everyone who knew her. She passed away in February 2026 while in the care of Mayo Hospice, leaving behind her beloved husband, Eamon, and their five children: Chloe, Tamsyn, Darragh, Emily and Aoife.
To honour Karen’s memory, her colleagues Gráinne Prendergast, Natalie Gill and Danielle Wagner, along with Danielle’s daughter, Sierra Wagner, took part in the West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon. The event held particular significance, as Karen had previously completed the Mini Marathon alongside Natalie.
Supported by the generosity of colleagues, friends and family, together with a matched donation from CMS Distribution, the team raised an incredible €4,250 in aid of Mayo Hospice.
We were honoured to welcome Karen’s husband, Eamon, and daughter, Tamsyn, to the CMS Distribution offices in Kiltimagh for the presentation of the donation to our CEO, Martina Jennings.
Karen’s kindness, warmth and friendship continue to be remembered with great affection. This wonderful tribute reflects the lasting impact she had on her colleagues, friends and family, while helping to support the compassionate care provided by Mayo Hospice to so many families.
