Galway Hospice volunteer Pat O’Connell is set to cycle the length of the UK to raise funds for the hospice.
The Renmore man will begin his 10-day, 1,400km cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats on July 25, and all funds raised will help purchase a specially adapted minibus for the hospice.
Galway Hospice collects patients around County Galway each week and brings them to its day care facility in Renmore, where they can avail of services, including medical review, physiotherapy, art therapy, aromatherapy, nursing, social work and pastoral care. The new minibus will assist in transporting patients with restricted mobility.
Charlene Hurley, director of fundraising and communications at Galway Hospice, says a new minibus is a much needed resource with the increase in demand for the hospice services.
“Our transport is so important for all of our services, but most importantly for our day care service. Not all patients require a 24-hour programme of nursing care, but for those whose lifestyle is affected by progressive illness, a visit to the day care unit can bring enjoyment, a period of respite, and improved quality of life.
"It also provides a much needed break for family carers.”
Last year alone there were more than 1,200 patient visits to the Renmore unit.
“The day care service is key to supporting patients to remain at home while living with a life limiting illness. Without it many more would require either nursing home or hospital care, which would place an additional burden on the already overstretched acute services in the Galway region,” she added.
To support Pat O’Connell’s Cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats, contact Galway Hospice 091-770868 or see https://give.everydayhero.com/ie/land-s-end-to-john-o-groats-cycle-for-galway-hospice.
