Take to the sea this Christmas

By Aislinn O'Connor

Over the last six years, Myrtleville Beach has witnessed the people of Cork braving the elements on freezing Christmas mornings to take the plunge into the cold sea in aid of the Mercy Hospital Kids and Teens Appeal!

This year, the beach will once again play host to the friends and family of Carrigaline teenager Danny Crowley, for the 7th annual Danny Crowley Memorial Swim.

Danny Crowley sadly lost his long battle with leukemia in November 2013. Following Danny’s passing, his friends wanted to do something to remember Danny in a special way. Since 25 December 2013, Danny’s friends along with many other participants from near and far have been braving the chilly waters at Myrtleville Beach in memory of Danny.

Funds raised will go to the Mercy Hospital Children’s Leukaemia unit where Danny spent a significant amount of time when having treatment in 2013. The unit also provides a Paediatric Oncology Outreach Service (POONS) which enables children to receive treatment from the comfort of their own home.

To date, in Danny’s memory, €94,000 has been raised with over €74,000 going to the Mercy Hospital Kids and Teens Appeal. This year, Danny’s family and friends hope to exceed the €100,000 mark with all funds going to the Mercy University Hospital Foundation.

Commenting ahead of this year’s Christmas Day Swim, Danny’s mam Majella Crowley said: “The annual swim really is a lovely way to remember Danny and for so many people now, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without Danny’s memorial Christmas Day Swim. Since the first swim in 2013, the response has been amazing and we are delighted to raise funds for the Mercy University Hospital Children’s Leukaemia Unit. Dr Clodagh Ryan and her team who were so good to Danny and our family which we will always be grateful for. “

Majella continued: “It still surprises us how many people are willing to take the plunge into the icy waters on Christmas Day and it’s growing and growing every year. Danny’s friends, his national school Gaelscoil Charraig Uí Leighin, Br. Martin Keneally and the Presentation Brothers and the whole community have been wonderful, they really have helped to create something special. We really appreciate this support and want to thank each and every person involved.”

Anyone interested in taking part can get their sponsorship cards ahead of the swim at Mano Mano Barber Shop, Main Street, Carrigaline or call Deborah Lonergan on 086-3739135 or Jennifer Kelleher on 087-9957252 or from any member of the Crowley family.

You can also make an online donation at mercyfundraising.ie and clicking on the Danny Crowley swim.

For further information on the Mercy Kids and Teens Appeal please visit: mercyfundraising.ie/appeals.