Information Evening Updates on Progress of Daisy Lodge Mayo Build
Earlier this week, we hosted an Information Evening at The Crossroads Community Centre, 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, due to open in early 2027.
The well-attended event provided insight into our vision that no child should face cancer alone, and our 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 provided attendees with an opportunity to hear an update on build progress of this purpose-built facility which will provide vital support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer across the island of Ireland, as well as an opportunity to ask questions about its impact on the community.
Attendees were invited to share their thoughts and ask questions about the progress of the project, with the opportunity to engage with Connolly & Fee Ltd, contractors for the build. Also in attendance at the information evening was our International Ambassador, former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, and Raph O’Connor, our Residential Services Manager at our existing Daisy Lodge in Co. Down. Raph spoke about the positive impact of our support and why places like Daisy Lodge are so vital for children with cancer and their families.
Cancer Fund for Children provides exceptional support to families across the island of Ireland. The development of this new purpose-built respite facility in Cong will be truly life-changing for countless families, and the service that will be provided when doors open will be transformative. It is incredibly encouraging to see such strong backing from stakeholders and supporters as the charity moves closer to opening this second centre and making this important vision a reality for families in Mayo and beyond.
Enda Kenny, Cancer Fund for Children International Ambassador
While the opening of Daisy Lodge, Co. Mayo will mark a significant milestone in the project, it also highlights the ongoing need for sustained support. With annual running costs of approximately £1.5 million, continued fundraising will be vital to ensure families can access this life-changing support for years to come. Every contribution will help us continue to provide a safe, supportive space where children with cancer and their families can rest, reconnect and rebuild.
Rachel Fullam, Community Fundraising Officer at Cancer Fund for Children
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 our team, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with other families going through similar experiences.
Ahead of doors opening next year, Daisy Lodge Co. Mayo will create new employment opportunities across hospitality, housekeeping, facilities management, administration, and therapeutic support. We will continue to work closely with the local community to promote volunteering and raise awareness of the needs of families impacted by childhood cancer.
Preparation of the 30,000 square foot site began in 2024 and full construction commenced in summer 2025. Due to open in early 2027, Daisy Lodge, Co. Mayo will be a special place where children and their families can make memories, and have precious time to rest, reconnect and rebuild.