Cancer Fund for Children Host Information Evening in Cong
On Tuesday 9th September we 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 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 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 our 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 our services throughout her journey. She shared her story with attendees, speaking about the positive impact of the this support and why places like Daisy Lodge are so vital for children with cancer and their families.
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 face 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.
Phil Alexander, CEO of 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.
Once complete, Daisy Lodge Cong 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.
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, we are close to our €20 million target to build and equip Daisy Lodge, a therapeutic short break centre for children with cancer and their families.
Our 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 2025.
