From Cork to Cong

This month, well-known hotelier Niall Rochford of Ashford Castle is set to walk 250km from Cork to Cong, Co. Mayo, in memory of his late wife, Stella, who died just eight weeks after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The Cork2Cong Challenge, beginning on 28 October at Honan Chapel, UCC, will follow key moments in Stella’s life — from her birthplace in Cork to Limerick and Clare, where the couple met and welcomed their first child, and on to Galway, before finishing in Cong, Co. Mayo, where Stella is now laid to rest.

Over 12 days, Niall will walk through four counties to raise awareness and funds for Pancreatic Cancer Ireland, a new charity he co-founded earlier this year. Supporters, friends, and the public are invited to join him along the route or take their own ‘Steps for Action’ to help raise funds.

Sporting icons Katie Taylor and David O’Leary have pledged their support through video messages shared on pancreaticcancerireland.ie and @pancreaticcancerireland on Instagram.

Pancreatic cancer affects over 600 people in Ireland every year, claiming the lives of five out of six diagnosed. Early diagnosis is rare, and symptoms often appear only when the disease has advanced.

Niall Rochford said: “This walk is deeply personal to me, and I know Stella will be with me every step of the way. We founded Pancreatic Cancer Ireland because we need more awareness and, crucially, a rapid diagnosis centre here in Ireland. Every donation helps, but if you can’t donate, please spread the word. Ireland’s community spirit gives me strength — I know I’ll feel it along the journey.”

Pancreatic Cancer Ireland was co-founded by Niall Rochford, Rachel Duquesnois, and Pamela Deasy, all of whom have been personally affected by the disease. The organisation works closely with leading medical experts, including Prof. Gráinne O’Kane and Prof. Tom Gallagher, to improve diagnosis and treatment options.

To donate or learn more about the Cork2Cong route, visit idonate.ie/event/Cork2Cong.