Offaly cancer survivor backs Marie Keating Foundation fundraising effort

Birr woman Dearbhaile O'Hare, a Marie Keating Foundation ambassador and cancer survivor, has lent her support to the Foundation's flagship fundraising challenge, 100km in 30 Days.

Dearbhaile attended the launch of the national fundraiser to show her support for the campaign and the foundation's work. In doing so, she helped to highlight the importance of community-led initiatives that bring people together while supporting those affected by cancer.

The Marie Keating Foundation, founded by singer Ronan Keating and his siblings following the loss of their mother in 1998, is calling on people across Ireland to walk, run, wheel or move 100km this June - just over 3km a day - in support of vital, free cancer services nationwide.

Dearbhaile joined the Marie Keating Foundation's 'Survive and Thrive' programme in 2023 after completing treatment for breast cancer, which she had been diagnosed with two years earlier.

Exercise played a vital role in her recovery, leading her to retrain as a cancer exercise specialist. She has also published 'Things Went Tits Up', a candid and often humorous book supporting others through cancer, with the proceeds benefiting the Marie Keating Foundation and Purple House Cancer Support.

Speaking at the launch, Dearbhaile said: "Exercise became such a big part of my life during and after treatment. Now I help others — whether it's preparing for surgery, getting through chemo, or rebuilding strength afterwards.

"Movement really is medicine, and I'd encourage everyone to get involved in the 100km in 30 Days challenge this June - it's a simple way to support an incredible cause while doing something positive for your own health too."

Also speaking at the launch, Dearbhaile's fellow Marie Keating Foundation ambassador Maia Dunphy said: "Cancer has touched my life in the most profound way. Losing my mum was incredibly hard, and it’s why challenges like this matter so much.

"'100km in 30 Days' is something anyone can take part in – it's simple, achievable, and fun to do and it brings people together in a really powerful way."

The Marie Keating Foundation provides free, nationwide awareness and support services for people affected by cancer, including nurse-led community outreach through mobile information units, survivorship programmes and financial assistance for those undergoing treatment.