Ladies lunch at The Lodge raises funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice

THE sixth (and first since 2019) annual ladies lunch fundraiser for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation took place on Friday at The Lodge at Ashford Castle.

The sold-out event was attended by 200 ladies from Mayo, Roscommon and the surrounding areas.

Special guests included RTÉ broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, Dr. Mary Ryan and Mayo Person of the Year, Rita Casey. Others in attendance included Mandy Maher, Niamh Ryan from Ella & Jo, Jennifer Wrynne, Michelle Fitzpatrick, Niamh O’Donovan, Jennifer Ryan, Hayley Coleman and Sarah Battle.

MC’d by Laurita Blewitt, the day began with a drinks reception overlooking Lough Corrib and was followed by a three-course lunch in The Lodge as well as a fashion show, hosted by Carraig Donn and Catwalk Model Agency.

Rita Casey spoke about the invaluable support she has received from Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation while she undergoes cancer treatment. Her words were inspirational and she received a warm and emotional response from all present.

Entertainment on the day was provided by The Galway Tenors.

Martina Jennings, CEO, of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, said: “This is our first ladies lunch since 2019 and in those five years, we have built and opened our two hospices in both Mayo and Roscommon. This is all thanks to fundraisers like this, as well as support from the communities across both counties in Mayo and Roscommon.

“We are committed to continuing to fund, support and develop palliative care services in our communities and we’re so grateful for the support received.

“The Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation have exciting plans for children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses, in the west of Ireland, to make sure they get the very best of care at end of life.”