A Straide woman, whose vibrant personality, enthusiasm for life and deep roots and friendships within her community and beyond, has inspired a century strong army of women to run in her honour at the West of Ireland Women’s Mini-Marathon on Sunday.
Brigid Cogger lost her battle with cancer on February 1 last, the feast day of the saint for whom she was named.
Her loss was felt keenly in the community and in other parts of the county as she was greatly admired and respected as a neighbour and friend to many, a community organiser, and was strongly committed to her church and faith.
At Brigid’s month’s mind Mass, friends announced their intention to organise a contingent of women to run in her honour at the mini-marathon and raise funds for Cancer Care West, a cause that was close to Brigid’s heart.
It was a fitting tribute as Brigid was well-known as a fit and energetic woman and was a familiar site on the N5 as she walked some 12 miles a day, come rain, hail or snow.
At the end of Mass, 70 women promptly signed up for the challenge, ranging in age from 15 to 80.
Mary Butler and Anna Marie Doyle, from Castlebar, are friends of Brigid and are organising the ‘10 km for Brigid’ campaign.
“We now have about 100 women altogether,” said Ms Butler. “The response has been incredible. When we brought this idea up, so many women responded and wanted to get involved. Brigid was very well known because she was such a vibrant person. She touched so many peoples’ lives. She was a born helper, a born organiser and now, these women want to give something back.”
To get involved or make a donation, contact Mary Butler on (087 ) 7694107 or see 10 km for Brigid on Facebook.
