Hospice mini marathon on bank holiday Monday

Now in its eighth year, the North Westmeath Hospice Mini Marathon returns on June bank holiday Monday.

Last year about 150 people took part and more expected this year. The marathon is organised by hospice volunteers, along with their families and friends.

Previously hospice care was only for those dying as a result of cancer, but in recent years it has been for every adult at the end of life no matter what the cause.

As of yet there is no hospice care available for children, currently LauraLynn provides that service.

Veronica Larkin, chairperson of the North Westmeath Hospice Fundraising Committee, explained how the volunteers help:

“We don’t interact with the patients, the hospice nurses do that, but we interact with the families.

“They might want to make a donation or organise or hold an event. Some people will want to organise a coffee morning, others will do a walk or run, or an afternoon tea. Everything from races to dances and social events, lots of different ways.

“Our members need to remember to be sensitive and helpful to the families.”

Registration for the 10k is €20, in the Harbour Place Shopping Centre car park between 11am and noon on Monday June 6.

The run/walk starts in Harbour Field at noon, and light refreshments will be served afterwards in Kerrigan’s Pub.