A group of friends from Galway is about to take on the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. Mary Ann Mc Gowan, Ailish Flaherty, Vivienne Molloy, Máirtín Óg Mc Donagh and Coleman Mc Donagh will fly out to Tanzania later this month on February 25 in aid of the Galway Hospice.
Kilimanjaro, known as one of the seven summits, stands at 5,895 metres above sea level. Hiking and hill walking has become widely popular, especially during the pandemic, but taking on a challenge such as Kilimanjaro demands significant fitness and endurance. So what’s the motivation?
Each person on the team has their own personal reasons for taking on this challenge.
For Máirtín Óg McDonagh of Mind Over Mountains it is about inspiring others to find better balance in their lives. Ailish Flaherty looks forward to the challenge but also the personal growth that being on the mountain will bring, it’s the same for Vivienne Molloy, personal growth, testing her endurance and sharing the journey with friends.
For Mary Ann McGowan and her brother Coleman McDonagh, the journey to the top of Kilimanjaro will be a poignant one as they take on the challenge to raise money for Galway Hospice in memory of their late mother, Áine McDonagh.
Mary Ann describes how central the home care team at Galway Hospice were in their ability to care for Áine.
“The hospice nurses became our lifeline while Mom was going through chemotherapy. The side effects of chemo, at least in our experience were worse than the disease. Galway Hospice supported us not just with clear and practical guidance, they did so with incredible kindness and compassion. In the end mom passed away at home surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Hospice made this possible and for that we are forever grateful.”
Galway Hospice services remain heavily dependent on fundraising. This group of hikers are hoping to raise €40,000 to support these vital services.
Donations can be made by visiting www.idonate.ie/maryannmcgowan Every penny raised goes directly to Galway Hospice Foundation.
The group would like to thank everyone who has already donated for their kind donations, well wishes and support to date – Kilimanjaro – The Galway hikers are coming for you!
