Former Ballina student and school raise significant sum of money for very worthy cause

COMMUNITY NOTES: BALLINA - WESTERN PEOPLE (DECEMBER 17 EDITION)

Former St Muredach’s College student Darragh Hopkins revisited his alma mater recently in support of the school’s non-uniform day. The charity initiative was organised by the students and staff in support of Darragh’s Dublin City Marathon fundraising run for the Irish Cancer Society.

Darragh – a second year medical student in the University of Galway – welcomed the donation of €500 from the school, and thanked the students and teachers for their contribution.

Through Darragh’s efforts to date, which included the challenging marathon race and a table quiz in September with proceeds of €4,000, a total of €16,546 has now been raised for the Irish Cancer Society. This money will support directly the Irish Cancer Society and its services, including cancer research, night nursing and daffodil centres.

The young student from Foxford Road, Ballina has become a champion for this fundraising cause since a close teenage friend of his, Richard Loftus from Ballina, was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer early in 2024. He and Richard have known each other since they first started playing rugby together in Ballina Rugby Club at Under-6 level, and have grown up alongside each other, both in school and in sport.

“The Dublin City Marathon was an incredibly meaningful experience for me,” said Darragh. “It was definitely tough at times, but when I thought about what Richard has been going through with his sarcoma diagnosis, it really put everything into perspective.

“The support I received along the way, both through donations and words of encouragement, was truly overwhelming. It made the challenge of running 26.2 miles feel more manageable, knowing that I was raising funds for the Irish Cancer Society and helping people like Richard.

“In the end, finishing the marathon wasn’t just about crossing the finish line, it was about showing my love and support for Richard, raising awareness for cancer care, and contributing to such an important cause. I’m really proud of what we accomplished together, and I’m so grateful to everyone who supported me.”

Donations can still be made online at Eventmaster and Darragh is hoping to present the Irish Cancer Society with a cheque in the New Year.