Welcome to the Mater Hospital Foundation

For 26-year-old Frank Dooner, things seemed hopeless. So many members of his family and friends were battling cancer and Frank felt there was nothing he could do. But he was determined to find a way to help in the face of their adversities, so three years ago, he joined the Dickie Dip. This is his way of fighting.

Mark is a GAA sports-mad, Wexford man constantly on the move. At least he was, until he received some shocking news in 2022 that left him utterly stunned. Lingering headaches, shivers and fatigue led him to seek answers, answers he was not expecting.

Ronnie was diagnosed with prostate cancer at 48 years old. He feels it’s vital to spread the message that men need to be aware of, and get their PSA levels checked earlier… don’t bury your head in the sand.

John loves hiking and is an avid hill walker. He’s climbed the highest peaks in Wales, Scotland and Ireland. That hobby came to an abrupt halt however, when John was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). It was quite unexpected news, and John did not know what his future had in store.

The Browne Family was inspired to give back to the Mater Hospital by holding a fundraising tractor run following Barry's care in the Transplant Unit.

Mary was 31, newly engaged and planning a move back to Ballina with her partner, Glenn… then a pain in her chest led to a life changing diagnosis. It turned her world upside down and her breast cancer battle began.

Based in Wexford, Kate was a busy working Mum of seven adult kids, who felt in control of her body and her world. Then a breast cancer diagnosis from a routine mammogram shocked and angered her, and set her on a journey to regain that control.

38-year-old Caoimhe was five weeks away from her wedding, planning furiously while juggling a busy job. Her body was beginning to send her some signals that things weren’t right, which led to a life-changing diagnosis she could have never expected.

Hugo took on our 100 Miles in a month challenge this February after a life-changing and life-saving nine months. It’s another tough obstacle… but it’s a cause that means the world to him. 🧡