Cork Rose to fundraise for stroke charity

Cork’s Rose of Tralee for 2026, Lexi Linnane hosted a very special event in aid of Cork Stroke Support (CSS) recently at the Blackrock Inn.

Linnane’s mother, Tracy, passed away suddenly from a stroke in 2023 at just 37 years old. Her grandmother has also been affected by a stroke and is now living with physical disabilities and aphasia.

She said that her mother’s death and funeral turned her world “upside down”.

“No family ever imagines losing someone so young to a stroke, and before then, I never realised just how important it was for people to know that a stroke doesn’t only affect older people.

“It can happen to anyone, at any age, and it can change lives in an instant," she said. The event took place last Sunday.

Linnane has dedicated her year as the Cork Rose to raising awareness for CSS. The charity provides a five-day service at their centre in Blackrock. It offers physiotherapy, counselling, information sessions, gym sessions, exercise classes, art and music classes, and nurse-led stroke day programmes.

“Throughout my year as Cork Rose, I want to do more than simply raise funds. I want to help start conversations, spread awareness of the signs and symptoms of stroke, and remind people that stroke doesn’t discriminate.

“If sharing my family’s story encourages even one person to recognise the signs of a stroke sooner or helps another family feel less alone, then I know my mum’s legacy is continuing to make a difference.

“CSS provides so much more than rehabilitation and services. They offer hope, understanding, friendship and a community for people whose lives have been changed by stroke. Knowing there is somewhere families can turn during some of the hardest moments of their lives is truly invaluable,” said Linnane.

Dan Cronin is the Chairperson of CSS and has worked with the group since 2017. He was introduced to the charity with his brothers Richard, John, and Paul after their father Sean suffered a stroke the same year.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and awareness Lexi is providing Cork Stroke Support throughout her time as the Cork Rose.

Lexi and her family have had to deal with an incredible loss at such a young age and the fundraising she provides will go directly to helping survivors and families deal with the effects of a stroke.

“Lexi’s story serves as a powerful reminder that stroke can have an effect on people’s lives no matter what age you are,” he said.