Twenty-five year old Sorcha Holohan from Nenagh, Co Tipperary completed the Sheffield Half Marathon in September of this year to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nursing Service. Sorcha had her own personal experience with the Night Nursing service when her family was looking for end-of-life care for her mother Catherine, also known as Kate.
“Mam was initially diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2013 but was given the all clear after treatment and went back to work in 2016 as a public health nurse. Unfortunately in 2018, we found out the cancer had returned and she began treatment once again. Mam always held her chin up though, even on her more difficult days.”
“She spent a lot of time receiving treatment in the Mercy Hospital Cork, Cork University Hospital and St. James’ Hospital, but unfortunately we found out that the cancer had continued to spread. Following one particularly bad day, we had to bring her into University Hospital Limerick and then back to Nenagh Hospital where we received the news that we didn’t have a lot of time left with her. The organisation Friends of Nenagh Hospital stepped in assisted us and I am also very grateful to them for their kind work.” Sorcha says.
Sorcha recalls the last few days spent with her mother “My family and I did rotations staying with her and the hospital suggested bringing her to the local hospice but mam was adamant she wanted to go home. That is when I learnt about the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nurses. They were with us for two nights, it is a time I will never forget.
It all happened in a blur but at the same time, things moved slowly. The Night Nurses were so lovely. They have a difficult job, I can’t imagine it is easy to deal with families who are overcome with the emotion that comes with losing someone. Their kindness, warmth and clarity at that time of Mam’s life will never be forgotten. It still brings butterflies to my stomach. They are incredible people and do incredible work. Everything ran smoothly, and that was soothing for my family and I.”
“Mam died on the 13th of December 2019. Even though I know she has passed away, I still feel she is with me every day. Between being heavily involved in the local camogie club and being a public health nurse, she was known, trusted and appreciated in the local community. She took care of everything without even saying a word. She was a selfless person and always made time for people.”
“Their kindness, warmth and clarity at that time of Mam’s life will never be forgotten”
I decided to do the half marathon for the Night Nurses because I wanted to give back. It was a time of my life that I will never forget.
People have been so generous, nearly everyone I know from around the world has donated. I have currently raised €5,381. I am so grateful, the challenge was nothing compared to my Mam’s journey. I was only happy to set myself a challenge for the benefit of the charity that we will forever be indebted to.”
Contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line
If you have worries or concerns about cancer, you can speak confidentially to an Irish Cancer Society Cancer Nurse through the Freephone Support Line on 1800 200 700.
Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm
For more information
Phone
1800 200 700
