We have provided short breaks to families from the Republic of Ireland in Daisy Lodge, Co. Down for over five years. It is our vision to build and open a second therapeutic short break centre for children with cancer and their families in the Republic of Ireland so that no child has to face cancer alone.
We are pleased to have secured land in the beautiful location of Cong in Co. Mayo which will uniquely offer more families the opportunity to spend quality time together in a safe and supportive environment.
The Need for Short Breaks
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, life changes for the whole family. Our therapeutic services help each family member cope with the emotional impact of cancer and allows them to simply be a family again.
The need for another therapeutic short break centre is massive. Currently, we can only provide one in seven families from across the Island of Ireland with a therapeutic short break. At any one time there is a waiting list of over 50 families waiting to come to Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, Co. Down.
Our second Daisy Lodge, Co. Mayo will allow us to increase the number of children and parents in Ireland we support each year from 1,800 to 4,000.
My association with Cancer Fund for Children has been an amazing journey. I was proud to give something back and open the charity’s first therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, Co. Down, in 2014.
It is amazing to come home and see what Cancer Fund for Children has created for families living with cancer. They have unbelievable facilities for children and offer essential support and care within a unique environment. Having been involved with the development of Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, from its very foundations, I have great belief in the Co Mayo project. The need is, obviously, enormous.
That’s why it is important for me to get behind Daisy Lodge, Co. Mayo, and help create a dedicated short break centre for children living with a cancer diagnosis.
Message From Rory McilRoy
When families visit Daisy Lodge, they will be able to enjoy a family cinema, an activity centre, a therapy suite, and a stunning outdoor area. Private family suites will encourage rest, relaxation, and recuperation alongside the communal areas, which are designed to gently and naturally encourage families to mix and share experiences and receive support.
The following video showcases the vision for Daisy Lodge in Co. Mayo and the plans that we have to provide a first-class facility for families living with a cancer diagnosis.
The Benefit of Short Breaks
At Daisy Lodge we invite families to step away from the tiresome journey of cancer and renew their inner resources, helping to strengthen their wellbeing and ensure they do not face this journey alone.
Our support works to connect, empower and strengthen families who are living with a cancer diagnosis. We provide opportunities for families to meet others in similar situations. We work to better equip families to deal with their current situation and we strive to increase the understanding of the impact of cancer on the whole family.
of families said they felt less stressed.
of families rated their short break as excellent.
of families said that spending time together was very important.
Why Mayo?
The location of the site for the new Daisy Lodge was carefully selected. Situated on the shores of the beautiful Lough Corrib in Co. Mayo this environment promotes peace and tranquillity. The benefits of nature and the soothing therapeutic qualities that fresh air and scenery provides will enhance the experience of all who spend time there.
We Need Your Support
Personal Donations
Corporate Donations
Sponsorship
Gifts in Kind
Meet Mary
Mary McHugh Murphy is our Connacht Regional Fundraiser. She is your go to person if you would like to get involved in fundraising.
I am really excited to reach out, meet and engage with schools, businesses, sports organisations and the general public about this project which will help Cancer Fund for Children ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer across the island of Ireland has access their support.
Cancer knocks on the door of many families, unannounced. It is a difficult time, but especially for diagnosed children. I am so passionate about the Daisy Lodge project. Having this therapeutic space in the West will help the whole family member cope with the emotional impact of cancer and allow them to simply be a family again.
If you would like to get in touch with Mary about fundraising, please contact her:
Register your details to receive your FREE Fundraising Pack.
To find out more and get involved in our efforts to build a Daisy Lodge in Co. Mayo please contact Hollie@cancerfundforchildren.ie.
