Relay for Life event attracts huge crowds

By Maurice Garvey

DESPITE facing a weekend with a bad weather forecast – the community turned out en masse to support the annual Ballyfermot Relay For Life.

Over a 24-hour period at Le Fanu park, a number of teams ensured they had a member on the track at all times, as the initiative raised funds for Irish Cancer Society and remembers those who have lost their lives.

A statement put out by organisers thanked everyone in the community for their “support and generosity”.

It said the “weather was not on our side this year, but that did not stop the amazing people of Ballyfermot coming together.”

They thanked cancer survivors for walking with them during the opening of the Relay, and participating teams for their “spirt.”

They also thanked MC David Roach, John Quinn “a huge asset”, the Irish Cancer Society, DJ Shane and Jamie for “great music”, to Robert for fencing, and they thanked committee members Daniel McGarry, Kevin McGarry, Jayde Welling, Amanda Quigley, Margaret Quigley, Sheila O’Connor, and Pam Robinson.

The event was kickstarted in 2013 when the three McGarry brothers from Cherry Orchard, took part in a charity cycle to honour their late mother Patty McGarry (54), who passed away from breast cancer.

The event also celebrates survivors, and remember ones lost, with a candle of hope ceremony featuring pictures of loved ones.
See more photos on page 58