Being struck twice by breast cancer in the space of seven years has given Noirin Gannon something of a determination to grasp all the opportunities life presents with both hands.
That is why earlier this year, aged 50, she didn’t have to think twice when she got the chance to pack her bag for London and audition for one of the biggest shows on television - Britain’s Got Talent.
Now, the keen singer is looking forward to the launch of a new CD she has compiled, with a host of other Irish performers, to raise funds for a charity that is very close to her heart - Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
“My experience has taught me that life is too short to have regrets,” said Noirin ahead of the CD launch. “Enjoy life to the full.”
She said she wanted to support hospice because of the “very challenging times” charities are facing. “A hospice in the county is a must,” she stated.
Noirin was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 when she was just 39. After already beating the illness once, she was left reeling when she was diagnosed again in 2010.
However, she is well on the road to recovery again and is working hard to raise funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice with the launch of Voices from Beyond the Wood.
The CD has 13 tracks featuring the likes of Charlie McGettigan (of ‘Rock and Roll Kids’ fame ) and Annette Griffin and is a mix of country, Irish traditional, ballads, folk, and bluegrass.
The CD will be officially launched at a gala concert on July 6 in the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport. There is a great line-up of entertainment on the night including Charlie McGettigan, Annette Griffin, John Staunton, The Garveys, The Tiernan Family, Mayo Concert Orchestra, Ballycroy Strawboys, and Brenda Grealis.
Tickets for the concert cost €10 and are available in Hospice shops throughout Mayo and in Achill Post Office.
For more information, contact Mayo Roscommon Hospice on (094 ) 9388666.
