5 December 2019
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
Christmas Day Swim in memory of Carrigaline teenager Danny Crowley, at 10.30am
Over the last six years, Myrtleville Beach has witnessed the people of Cork brave the elements on Christmas morning, taking a plunge in the cold winter sea. What seems like the unquestionable for many; when you ask the people taking part on the day, it clearly becomes evident why they are so willing to do so.
Jack Lonergan, Katie Crowley and Scott Lonergan launching the 2019 Danny Crowley Memorial Swim
Pic Darragh Kane
Jack Lonergan, Katie Crowley and Scott Lonergan launching the 2019 Danny Crowley Memorial Swim
Pic Darragh Kane
Jack Lonergan, Katie Crowley, Michael Coholan, Alannah Crowley and Scott Lonergan launching the 2019 Danny Crowley Memorial Swim which will take place on Christmas Day at Myrtleville Beach
Pic Darragh Kane
On December 25th, 2019, Myrtleville Beach will once again play host to the friends and family of Carrigaline teenager Danny Crowley, for the 7th annual Danny Crowley Memorial Swim in aid of the Mercy Hospital Kids + Teens Appeal.
Danny Crowley sadly lost his long battle with Leukaemia in November of 2013. Following Danny’s passing, his friends wanted to do something to remember Danny in a special way. Since the 25th of December 2013, Danny’s friends along with many other participants from near and far have been braving the chilly waters at Myrtleville Beach in memory of Danny.
Funds raised will go to the Mercy Hospital Children’s Leukaemia unit where Danny spent a significant amount of time when having treatment in 2013. The unit also provides a Paediatric Oncology Outreach Service (POONS) which enables children to receive treatment from the comfort of their own home.
To date in Danny’s memory, a phenomenal €94,000 has been raised with over €74,000 going to the Mercy Hospital Kids + Teens Appeal. This year, Danny’s family and friends hope to exceed the €100,000 mark and all funds will be going to the Mercy University Hospital Foundation.
Commenting ahead of this year’s Christmas Day Swim, Danny’s mom Majella Crowley said, “The annual swim really is a lovely way to remember Danny and for so many people now, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without Danny’s memorial Christmas Day Swim. Since the first swim in 2013, the response has been amazing and we are delighted to raise funds for the Mercy University Hospital Children’s Leukaemia Unit. Dr Clodagh Ryan and her team who were so good to Danny and our family which we will always be grateful for. “
Majella continued, “It still surprises us how many people are willing to take the plunge into the icy waters on Christmas Day and it’s growing and growing every year. Danny’s friends, his national school Gaelscoil Charraig Uí Leighin, Br Martin Keneally & the Presentation Brothers and the whole community have been wonderful, they really have helped to create something special. We really appreciate this support and want to thank each and every person involved. “
Anyone interested in taking part can get their sponsorship cards ahead of the swim at Mano Mano Barber Shop, Main Street, Carrigaline or call Deborah Lonergan on (086) 3739135 or Jennifer Kelleher on (087) 9957252 or from any member of the Crowley family. You can also make on online donation at www.mercyfundraising.ie and clicking on the Danny Crowley swim.
For further information on the Mercy Kids + Teens Appeal please visit: www.mercyfundraising.ie/
