Cancer Fund for Children update community on Mayo's Daisy Lodge project

by Patrick Hennelly

Cancer Fund for Children has hosted an information evening at Lydon’s Lodge Hotel, Cong, to update local residents and stakeholders on the construction of Daisy Lodge, a therapeutic short break centre for children with a cancer diagnosis and their families.

The well-attended event provided insight into Cancer Fund for Children’s vision that no child should face cancer alone, and the charity’s commitment to ensure children, young people and families receive the right support, at the right time whether at home, in hospital or through therapeutic short breaks.

It also gave the team an opportunity to outline how the new therapeutic centre will help deliver on this, while engaging with Connolly & Fee Ltd, who were awarded the contract for the build.

Attendees were invited to share their thoughts and ask questions about the project.

Also in attendance at the information evening were Cancer Fund for Children’s International Ambassador, former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who welcomed guests, and 17-year-old Vanessa Matczak, a young ambassador for the charity.

Diagnosed with cancer three years ago, Vanessa has been supported by Cancer Fund for Children throughout her journey.

She shared her story with attendees, speaking about the positive impact of the charity’s support and why places like Daisy Lodge are so vital for children with cancer and their families.

Speaking at the event Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children, said: “Bringing a therapeutic short break centre to Cong represents a major milestone in our mission to help ensure no child or young person across Ireland faces cancer alone.

"We are deeply grateful to all our stakeholders and supporters for their ongoing commitment as we move closer to opening this second centre. Together, we are creating a truly special place that will make a life-changing difference to thousands of families for generations to come.”

The new Daisy Lodge will provide children across Ireland impacted by cancer, and their families, with a safe, restorative space where they can spend quality time together, benefit from therapeutic support delivered by Cancer Fund for Children’s team, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with other families going through similar experiences.

Once completed, Daisy Lodge Cong will create new employment opportunities across hospitality, housekeeping, facilities management, administration, and therapeutic support.

Cancer Fund for Children will continue to work closely with the local community to promote volunteering and raise awareness of the needs of families impacted by childhood cancer.

In June 2023, the Department of Health announced €5 million in capital funding for the project, alongside €2.5 million from the Shared Island Fund.

Thanks to this vital support, together with the generosity of local communities, philanthropic donors, corporate partners and funders, Cancer Fund for Children is close to their €20 million target to build and equip Daisy Lodge.

Daisy Lodge will be a therapeutic short break centre for children with cancer, and their families.

Cancer Fund for Children’s existing Daisy Lodge in Co Down supports around 1,800 family members annually. The addition of a second centre in Cong, will double capacity to 4,000 family members each year.

Preparatory works on the site were completed in 2024 under archaeological and ecological supervision, including the laying of a sub-base for an access road, car park, building footprint, and play area.

Construction on site commenced in August.

For more information on the charity and the Daisy Lodge Mayo project, please visit here.