Dara gives back – Pedal for the POONS’, a 12 hour indoor cycle challenge in aid of the Mercy Hospital Foundation, will take place in Ballincollig GAA Club on Saturday, 22nd April.

With the support of friends and family, the fundraiser is being organised by Coeurena and Noel Kelleher, who’s son, Dara was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia TCell in January 2020, weeks before his third birthday. In the three and a half years that has followed, Dara has received intensive treatment from the Mercy University Hospital, Cork, including approximately 120 overnight hospital admissions. This treatment, including access to POONS (Paediatric Oncology Outreach Nursing Service), has ensured the ongoing successful treatment of Dara.

POONS, the only service of its kind in Ireland, allows children with cancer to receive vital treatment in the comfort of their own home, helping to cut back on hospital visits and provide support to families during such a difficult time. POONS has provided immeasurable support for the Kelleher family, as well as some of Cork’s youngest patients and their families over the last number of years, with 45 families using the service in 2021 alone.

Speaking about their experience, Coeurena said:

“Upon Dara’s diagnosis our world was turned upside down in an instant. Fortunately, the enduring support and kindness of so many; family, friends, colleagues, and Ballincollig GAA was invaluable, and words can never express our gratitude. So now it is our hope to give back by creating this event.”

In 2021, the Mercy POONS nurses travelled 23,654 kilometres to provide an incredible 550 home visits to families. It costs the Mercy Hospital Foundation €30,000 each year to continue to keep this service mobile.

Coeurena continued:

“POONS provides a unique service that sees the Mercy’s paediatric nurses, Peg and Olga and their colleagues, come to our home to provide treatment and education, reducing the number of trips to hospital for Dara. This service, and ongoing support of so many, has helped family and school life to continue for us all. Dara is now a very happy six year old, who loves playing sport with his brothers Noah and Jack, and who has made lots of friends. His fun-loving nature, resilience and determination is remarkable. Our hope is that in raising money, POONS can continue to support families like ourselves and ease the journey a little.” 

‘Dara gives back – Pedal for the POONS’ on April 22nd, which has already raised over €37,000, and is aiming to surpass the €40,000 mark, will see Dara’s dad Noel, together with Mike McGrath,  Danny Dwyer and Pearse O’Malley,  take on the grueling 12 hour cycle from 5am-5pm, and collectively between them, complete over 1,250kms. Throughout the day, over 30 other cyclists will join them to do relays and lend their support. An under age blitz for girls and boys from 8 to 13 years will also take place at the club on the day; with lots more exciting additions to the event to be announced.

To donate simply visit https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/daragivesback, or go along to Ballincollig GAA Club on Saturday, 22nd April.

For more information on POONS visit https://www.mercyhospitalfoundation.ie/appeals/the-mercy-kids-teens-appeal/.