Loughlin steps up as Make-A-Wish GPA ambassador

Westmeath senior footballer and The Downs clubman, Luke Loughlin, says the work Make-A-Wish Ireland “do for sick children in Westmeath and the rest of the country is incredible”.

Luke. a Make-A-Wish GPA ambassador, is supporting the charity as they launch Wish Week 2026, supported by its4women, calling on communities across the country to come together and help meet growing demand.

More than 300 children in Ireland are waiting for life-changing wishes.

They granted 229 wishes in 2025, the highest number to date, made possible through the generosity of the Irish public and corporate partners.

The nationwide fundraising campaign continues till tomorrow, Friday April 17, which is a dedicated ‘Donation Day’ when volunteers will be out in towns, shopping centres and communities.

In 2025, Wish Week raised €245,000, helping Make-A-Wish Ireland increase the number of wishes delivered from 200 to 229. This year, the charity aim to raise €265,000.

Make-A-Wish Ireland have granted 3,600 wishes since 1992.

Luke Loughlin said: “I’m very proud to be a Make-A-Wish ambassador. The work they do for sick children in Westmeath and the rest of the country is incredible. They have collections all across the country for Wish Week 2026. Any support from the public at these locations or through online donations would be incredible and will help to grant magical wishes in the region during 2026.”

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Look out for the Make-A-Wish team in blue at bucket collections in Dunnes Stores supermarkets and on-street on Friday, April 17, and donate generously.

Donate online at www.makeawish.ie or via Revolut on Friday, April 17, Wish Week Donation Day.