Cancer survivor plans Reek climb to say thanks

A bowel cancer survivor is planning to undertake a climb of Croagh Patrick as a way to give thanks for being cured.

Eugene McNamee from Ravensdale, Co Louth, will be joined by family and friends when he attempts the Reek climb on Saturday, April 17.  The retired barman also plans to raise money for cancer charities by undertaking the feat.

A father of six, Mr McNamee was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2001, but underwent a series of operations and has since been given the all clear.  He said he hopes his Croagh Patrick venture will give something back by raising much-needed funds for those working to find a cure for the cancer.

"Thankfully, I've had a great bonus since then and I like to give something back,” he remarked.  “I haven't been up [Croagh Patrick] before but I'm looking forward to the climb," he added.

He said his daughter inspired the idea when she climbed it last year.

“We are going to have sponsor cards and a charity auction over Easter and we will auction a Celtic jersey signed by Aiden McGeady, a signed Kilkenny hurling jersey and a signed Kerry football jersey.”

"There will be other items as well, this is a way of giving back,” said Mr McNamee.  "Any money raised for the climb will be donated to the North Louth Hospice and Conquer Cancer,” he added.

By Fintan Deere