Business Leaders Raise €1.5 Million for Children Facing Cancer
26 Mountains in 9 Days: Business Leaders Conquer Ireland’s Peaks and Raise €1.5 Million for Children Facing Cancer
25 business leaders from across Ireland and the UK have just completed a once-in-a-lifetime challenge—scaling the highest mountain in every county across the island of Ireland in just nine days—to raise an astonishing €1.5m in support of children and young people impacted by cancer.
The “26 Mountains 2 Mayo” is a physical and mental challenge which saw participants endure rain, winds, low visibility and grueling terrain, as well as sleep deprivation with early morning starts and late nights as they climbed a total of 11,000 metres—the equivalent of ascending Mount Everest 1.25 times. Beginning with Errigal in Donegal on June 7th and ending triumphantly at Mweelrea in Mayo on June 15th, the journey tested every ounce of physical and mental endurance.
This was more than a test of strength, it was a show of solidarity with children who climb their own mountains every day. Every step we took, no matter how steep, was inspired by the families who face cancer with courage and resilience. The pain in our legs is nothing compared to what young people have to endure, and we’re proud to have walked for them.
Roger Johnston, CEO of Axial 3D and challenge organiser
The funds raised will go directly to our vital services, providing emotional and therapeutic support to children across the island of Ireland, at home, in hospital and at our therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge.
Every week, approximately10 children and young people in Ireland are diagnosed with cancer. The 26 Mountains 2 Mayo team has not only raised vital funds, but awareness, spirit, and hope. Their passion and perseverance are an inspiration to us all and a lifeline to the families we support.
Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children
The monumental effort was made possible through the generosity of Arachas, Ireland’s largest nationwide insurance broker, and part of the Ardonagh Group.
This challenge reminds us what we can achieve when we unite for a cause greater than ourselves. The strength and humanity shown by this team is nothing short of incredible and Arachas is proud to stand behind such life-changing work. Together, we’ve climbed for courage, for care, and for every child who needs to know they’re not alone.
Joey Wynne, CEO of Arachas
