Boat run raises vital funds for Mercy University Hospital Foundation

A 24-hour charity boat run from Ireland’s most southerly point to its most northerly outpost has raised €110,000 for the Mercy University Hospital Foundation.

Last month, West Cork man John Fleming set out with his crew, starting from Ireland’s most southerly point, Mizen Head, for a 24-hour charity boat run to Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head.

Completing their journey ahead of schedule, the crew raised €110,000, which will go towards the advancement of cancer treatments at the Mercy University Hospital (MUH).

John, from Seven Heads, and his crew of Sean, Patrick, and Anthony, set off from Mizen Head at 10.30am on Tuesday 15 August, and arrived at Bunowen Pier in Connemara at 7pm that evening, to be greeted by Christy, Ronan, Pat, Tadhg, who refuelled the boat and hungry crew.

Following a slight crew change, Anthony, Ronan, Pat, and John set off for Malin Head at 8pm.

It was a challenging journey, but the crew was well able, as John Fleming explained.

“It was an extremely dark night at sea, but our younger crew members were excellent in navigating the north Mayo and Donegal coast,” he said.

The crew arrived at Malin Head at 9am on Wednesday 16 August, completing the voyage ahead of schedule, in 22.5 hours.

Mr Fleming said the Mercy University Hospital Foundation was chosen as the beneficiary of the funds raised because of the work the hospital does.

“The Mercy is a hospital that so many people from all over Cork, and beyond, hold close to their hearts, we all know someone who has been treated there; and the care patients receive is second to none,” he said.

“Cancer in particular is something no family wants to go through, but thanks to the Mercy’s oncology team, people’s cancer journeys will be made a little easier. 

"The more that can be done through research and advancements to enhance the treatment of this illness the better for all of us.” 

Thanking John Fleming and his team, Thomas Murphy, a consultant general surgeon with a special interest in oesophageal cancer who is based at the MUH, explained how funds like this will benefit patients undergoing cancer treatment at the MUH.

“For those people in Munster diagnosed with cancer, the Mercy will be at the forefront of diagnosis, research, treatment and care, thanks to generous donations and funds raised through events like the Mizen to Malin Boat Run,” Mr Murphy said.

“We place the highest importance on patient dignity and care at the Mercy, so that cancer patients feel comfortable and reassured throughout their treatment and their families feel welcomed. 

"We are committed to deliver services and facilities that will continue to improve their experiences,” he said. 

 For more information on Mercy University Hospital Foundation’s work visit https://www.mercyhospitalfoundation.ie.