Hundreds Expected for Annual Cork Cancer Charity Walk Honouring Local Heroes

Hundreds Expected for Annual Cork Cancer Charity Walk Honouring Local Heroes

A beloved Cork charity walk that has raised over half a million euros for cancer services returns this July, continuing a powerful legacy of remembrance and community spirit that stretches back more than a decade.

The 'Make Your Mark on Cancer' walk will see hundreds of participants tackle a 22-kilometre route from The Viaduct to Bandon Town Hall on Sunday, July 13th, marking the twelfth year of an event that began as a tribute to Mark Prendergast, a Bandon man who died from testicular cancer in 2012.

Since its inaugural event in 2013, the walk has raised an impressive €566,528 for cancer services at Mercy University Hospital, demonstrating the remarkable fundraising power of Cork communities when they unite for a cause.

At the heart of this year's campaign is the Seaman family from Bandon, whose unwavering commitment exemplifies the walk's enduring spirit. The family participates annually in memory of Ray Seaman, who passed away from bile duct cancer on September 8th, 2012, at Mercy University Hospital.

Verona O'Driscoll, Ray's sister, said:

"Every year we walk in memory of Ray - a brother, father, and friend, and every year we're reminded of the incredible community that surrounds this event. It's more than just a walk, it's a day filled with hope, remembrance, and solidarity."

The family's involvement extends beyond participation, with Gary Seaman driving McCarthy Coaches' transfer bus and Alan Seaman leading the way as the lead car driver, whilst Noel Seaman walks alongside his partner Venessa, sister Verona, and brother Niall, who travels annually from the UK for the event.

Carol Crean, speaking on behalf of the Make Your Mark on Cancer committee, said:

"The Seaman family is the heart of our mission, consistently giving at every level, year after year. Their ongoing support inspires us - they show up, give back, and believe in 'Making a Mark on Cancer' every year. We are encouraging families from all over Cork to do the same this year by joining us on Sunday, July 13th."

The funds raised will support crucial cancer services, including testicular cancer awareness talks across Cork schools. St. Brogan's School in Bandon will be among those benefiting from these educational sessions, which aim to equip young male students with life-saving knowledge about early symptom detection.

Rachel Stevenson, CEO of Mercy Hospital Foundation, highlighted the vital importance of such community initiatives:

"One in two of us will develop cancer in our lifetime with an estimated 46,000 people in Ireland getting cancer every year. Events like 'Make Your Mark on Cancer' are essential to the provision of the best possible care to patients and their families."

The walk begins at The Viaduct from 9am, with complimentary McCarthy Coaches buses departing from Kelleher's Builder Providers in Bandon from 8am. The route is designed to accommodate all ages and fitness levels, featuring regular refreshment and toilet stops. Those preferring a shorter distance can start at Innishannon Parish Hall.

This year's sponsors include Acesigns and McCarthy Coaches, with C103 serving as the official media partner.

Registration costs €25, though participation is free for those who take sponsorship cards. To register or receive sponsorship materials, visit www.makeyourmark.ie or call 086 4542132. Additional information about the Mercy Cancer Appeal is available at www.mercyhospitalfoundation.ie.