Join the Santa Dash to raise funds for Tallaght University Hospital Foundation
By Mary Dennehy
The Echo and South Dublin Chamber have this week announced their backing of a fun charity fundraiser for Tallaght University Hospital, which hopes to raise €30,000 for older age services.
In one final push for support before year end, staff at the local hospital are calling on the community to take part in their annual Santa Dash – and to walk, jog, run, swim or cycle to help raise funds for Europe’s first centre of excellence for aging research and gerontechnology.
Emma Kennedy (Managing Director, The Echo), Eamonn Egan (President of South Dublin Chamber) with Molly and Lucy, and Kelly Crowley (Head of Development, Tallaght University Hospitl Foundtion) at the launch of the TUHF Santa Dash
The Santa Dash, which is being organised by the Tallaght University Hospital Foundation (TUHF), is open to the entire community, and participants can clock any mileage from one kilometre to 1,000km.
In previous years, staff have gone that extra mile by organising and taking part in an annual cycle fundraiser in aid of a diverse range of hospital services and programmes.
However, this year, staff are under considerable pressures due to the challenges presented by Covid-19 and need the community to go that extra mile for them in 2020.
Kelly Crowley, Head of Development at Tallaght University Hospital Foundation said: “Whether you’re a keen runner wanting to take on a half marathon route, or a family wanting to walk 1km together around your local park, participants can choose to complete any distance of their choosing, in their chosen location – remembering to follow all current Government guidelines relating to travel and social distancing.
“We hope this fun event will bring festive cheer not only to the participants, but also to their friends and neighbours who we hope will be cheering on any Santas they see out pounding the pavements.”
This year, the team at The Echo, which is unable to take on its own annual Christmas fundraiser, is backing Tallaght University Hospital.
“Tallaght University Hospital is at the heart of our community”, Emma Kennedy, Managing Director of The Echo, said.
“It’s difficult to put into words the massive respect TUH has, particularly now in such challenging times.
“We are in awe of the dedication of the hospital’s staff and alongside caring for patients, we hear about the support they give to families and loved ones.
“Now we want to support the hospital and we’re delighted to be in a position to get behind this virtual TUHF Santa Dash.”
Ms Kennedy added: “I would appeal to our readers to take part in this fun event, whether it be to run, jog walk, cycle or swim and also encourage local businesses to get behind and sponsor this great event.
“In return, The Echo will get behind you and display your business logo free of charge in weekly event coverage in the paper.”
Eammon Egan, the President of South Dublin Chamber of Commerce said: “We are delighted to further our relationship with the hospital and welcome the opportunity to support and promote TUHF’s Santa’s Dash.
“I know our members will want to help. Tallaght University Hospital is a key part of our community at any time and especially now as we meet the challenges of Covid-19.”
Money raised through this year’s Santa Dash will be invested in developing Europe’s first centre of excellence for aging research and gerontechnology in Tallaght.
According to the Foundation, Tallaght University Hospital is on course to become a ‘global hub’, collaborating with technology providers and innovators in Ireland and around the world to improve the health and wellbeing of people over 65.
Individuals and families looking to take part in the TUHF Santa Dash can register at https://www.popupraces.ie/race/tuhf-santa-dash/ and can set up an optional fundraising page at https://www.idonate.ie/TUHF-SantaDash.
Local businesses are encouraged to get on board and show their support by purchasing a logo or listing.
Companies who support the Santa Dash, will have their logo or listing included on the donated sponsor advert pages in The Echo on December 3rd, 10th and 17th.
The Echo has offered this ad space for free, with all proceeds donated by businesses going directly to the Santa Dash.
Email Kelly at kcrowley@tuhf.ie for more information.
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