Seven-figure sum raised for cancer care in 'Mountains to Mayo' fundraiser

A group of business leaders raised a whopping €1.5 million for children’s cancer care as part of a monster mountain climbing endeavour titled ‘26 Mountains 2 Mayo’.

On Saturday, June 7, 25 people set off from the foot of Mount Errigal in Donegal on an ambitious and fascinating expedition to climb a mountain in every county in the Republic of Ireland.

READ MORE: Mayo man takes action and paints disabled parking spaces in Westport

Over the course of the next nine days, the group climbed over 11,000 metres, the equivalent of summiting Mount Everest and continuing for a further 3 kilometres.

The mammoth task ended on Sunday, June 15, when the crew made it to the top of Mweelrea in Mayo.

All funds raised by the efforts will go directly to Cancer Care for Children, an organisation that provides support for young people battling the disease.

The charity’s CEO, Phil Alexander, expressed his delight at the support from these business leaders.

“The 26 Mountains 2 Mayo team has not only raised vital funds, but awareness, spirit, and hope,” he stated. “Their passion and perseverance are an inspiration to us all and a lifeline to the families we support.”

READ MORE: GAA column - Mayo simply weren't clinical enough against Donegal

The driving force of the project, as well as the CEO of Axial3D, Roger Johston, spoke of the motivation which fueled those taking part.

“Every step we took, no matter how steep, was inspired by the families who face cancer with courage and resilience,” said Johnston.

Starting off, the group set an ambitious goal of raising £1 million, or roughly €1.17 million. They have blown that figure out of the water, bringing in over £1.22 million, or €1.43 million at the time of writing.

Those who wish to donate to the group’s fundraising efforts can do so by clicking here.