More than 200 guests gathered at Westport’s Knockranny House Hotel on Friday, November 14th, for a warm and engaging Afternoon Tea event in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.
Among the special guests were Foundation Patrons Mary McAleese and Cathal Hughes. They spoke of the importance of building on the Foundation’s impressive 32-year history, and outlined some of the charity’s ambitious plans for the future.
Three days in advance of the official unveiling of plans for the new Sunflower Children’s Hospice in Mayo, attendees were treated to an exclusive preview in Westport. Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation’s CEO, Martina Jennings, spoke of the inspiration behind the planned facility and the simple
message that she has carried with her for several years…“don’t forget the children”.
As two of Ireland’s most beloved voices, and co-hosts of the acclaimed podcast Changing Times – The Allenwood Conversations, Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy brought their trademark insight and humour to the event. As a Patron of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, former President Mary McAleese spoke with great pride of the organisation’s many accomplishments, and said she looks forward to seeing the team realising their
next big dream.
Patron and founding Chairperson of the Board, Cathal Hughes, shared his memories of the last three decades – the determination of the team, the huge strides that have been made, and the importance of never standing still.
Edel Hyland, who has been bravely battling breast cancer for almost four years, was another popular speaker at the Afternoon Tea. With first-hand experience of palliative home care and in-patient treatment at Mayo Hospice, she was her normal charismatic self and spoke of her unwavering gratitude for the team, and indeed her gratitude for life.
Dr Mary Ryan, Professor and Consultant Endocrinologist, was also among the special guests, and spoke of the importance of selfcare and prioritising your wellbeing.
CEO Martina Jennings thanked all those who had turned out for the special event. She acknowledged each of the speakers for sharing powerful words and emotional stories and expressed her sincere appreciation to the people of Mayo and Roscommon for their ongoing support. “By being here, and supporting events like this, each and every one of you are helping us to continue our work providing palliative care to patients and families in our communities. We are forever grateful for your support,” she added.
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