On the 1st May 2015, we lost our lovely Mum, Phil Collins, to pancreatic cancer. As the mother to 6 girls, wife to our Dad Kieran, and grandmother to lots of lovely grandchildren, we still struggle every day to cope with her loss and the huge gap we have in our lives.

Mum's battle with cancer was lengthy and often painful - for her of course given the aggressive treatment but also for us watching her fight to live. To be honest, at times it was overwhelming for us all.  I personally remember the day Mum had to have her head shaved to get her wig fitted and while she looked absolutely gorgeous with a bald head, the shock for her was huge.  We took a photo together that day and Mum still had her smile, but it was a very tough day.

Shortly before Mum's death, I met Ann Dowley Spillane at a fashion show cancer fundraiser.  Ann had set up the Cork Cancer Care Centre in response to her own battle with cancer. It was following her diagnosis and whilst undergoing treatment that she became acutely aware of the need for a Club to support each other with conversation, advice and occasionally a night out! So in February 2011, The Girls Club now known as Cork Cancer Care Centre was born. Within the space of a year and with the help of many generous donations and volunteers along the way, Ann managed to secure, refurbish, and furnish a new premise at 26 St Paul's Avenue in Cork city. Behind the pink door of the centre is what I can only refer to as a 'home away from home' and a huge support to all those touched by Cancer and their families. The Centre offers free counselling as well as a range of complimentary therapies such as Reiki, acupuncture, mindfulness and a drop-in centre during the day where you can go for a cuppa and a chat.

Mum had met Ann a couple of times at some cancer information days and being a very private person, Mum never used the Centre but she was aware that Ann operated a Wig Bank – essentially cancer sufferers, many who can’t afford the high cost of purchasing a wig, can try out and take home wigs, turbans and scarves which have been kindly donated by others. Mum asked that I donate her wig and headscarves to Ann. Following Mum’s death, I called in to the Centre and was amazed by the sense of friendship, comradery and support. It was clear to me that while they couldn’t cure cancer, what they do in the Centre is equally important - a place to accept, cry, laugh and scream! Since then, I have tried to volunteer with the Centre whenever possible in whatever way I can.

I am now hoping to raise some funds for the Centre so 2 of my sisters and I are taking part in the Evening Echo Women’s Mini Marathon on Sunday 24th September.  It's only 4 miles, so I'm sure we can do it!!

I don't like to beg, but . . . All donations very gratefully accepted!

Thank you.