Fundraiser tops €33k in walks for Wesley

A FUNDRAISER established two years ago by a grieving sister has raised €33,000 for Our Lady’s Hospice.

Serena Keating started the initiative in 2019, in memory of her brother Wesley Keating (27), who passed away from a brain tumour in December 10, 2018, at the hospice.

Clondalkin resident Wesley had been living with a brain tumour from the age of 16, and underwent surgeries, but a benign tumour resurfaced after he married.

His death left behind a two-year-old daughter Poppy, and his heartbroken wife Ashlee.

“Wes lived every day to the full and was the most positive person you could meet,” said Serena, a Lucan resident.

“How he lived has inspired me and many others on how to live life. As part of the fundraiser, I ask people to take a sponsor card and join us in a 5km walk in the Phoenix Park while carrying a picture of someone who they loved and lost.

“This has brought huge comfort to people and turned a really sad and difficult time of the year into a happy event.

Serena said she was “overwhelmed by support” and thanked “all family, friends and local businesses”, for their help in ensuring the event was a resounding success.

“We raised an amazing amount €12,400 this year, and there are still funds being added,” said Serena.

“There was also €2,000 from a Santa’s grotto event. Weso is deeply missed everyday by all his family and friends. My mam Breda Keating is also missed, she will be nine years gone in March.”