71% of Irish adults say that ‘play’ helped them make friends and build relationships during their childhood 90% feel children should have more freedom to play and 69% believe there is too much emphasis on ‘organised play’ for children today Barretstown is encouraging adults to reconnect with their childhood this August through our new … Continued
Unfortunately every week in Ireland three families learn the devastating news that their child has cancer. No parent ever thinks that their child will get cancer. And no parent thinks they will ever have to face the possibility that their child could die. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, everything becomes about what you … Continued
To hear a child who has been battling cancer laugh so much that tears run down their face and milk squirts out their nose is one of the most wonderful sounds you could ever hear. To Leo, and the rest of our family, Barretstown is THE most magical place on earth” Alexa, Leo’s Mum Without our Med Shed, … Continued
The Murphy Cruse family from Dublin shared their journey and their Barretstown experience with us recently. Around this time last year, Seamus’ football coach noticed that Seamus was ‘slowing down’ and getting out of breath. His mum took him for an ultrasound at Crumlin and the scan revealed a large tumour growing in Seamus’ liver. … Continued
Declan Molloy, shared his powerful and moving Barretstown story with our amazing donors recently, read his story here… “Fourteen years ago I was a frightened little boy hearing the most devastating words any child can possibly hear… “you have cancer. You might die.” What followed, was basically the worst time of my life. I hated … Continued
Caitlin is just one of the hundreds of children who are waiting and hoping for their chance to come to Barretstown this year. Seven Years ago, Antoinette and her husband Declan brought their four children Seamus, Oisín, Ciaran and baby Caitlin – to one of our family camps. Oisín had a rare form of Leukaemia. … Continued
You’ll probably think this sounds like a real cliché… but right up until the 26th of April last year, us Shortalls were just a typical family. No major illnesses. No disasters. Three kids, a mortgage, school runs, bills, family holidays, days out… just your average Irish family. There were five of us. Myself, my husband … Continued
A BIG thank you to Linda Kane and family at Beechlane Equestrian Centre for holding a Family Fun Day and raising €1557 for Barretstown! Thank you to everyone who supported it including Cavan Pony Club and Lakeland Riding Club too and of course a special thank you to Mary Keady for helping to make the … Continued
The Toner family are regular Barretstown campers and fundraisers. For the last few years they’ve taken the plunge in the icy waters off the coast of Donegal on Christmas Day to raise money for Barretstown! And this year was no exception raising the superb amount of €3061. Well done and a BIG BARRETSTOWN THANK YOU … Continued
Ella O’Keeffe was just two years old when she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia on the 2nd January, 2010. Elaine (her mum) shared her story on the Today show recently. Please click here and after watching the initial ads move the time slider to 17.13 to see Elaine explain to the Today Show team … Continued
Big thank you to the McMahon family from Co Cavan who organised a tractor run and a few other events to raise over €3k for Barretstown. Pictured below with the cheque is Ciara McMahon who is taking part in our Leader in Training programme at Barretstown.
On September 1st a sonspored walk in fancy dress took place in Maynooth. The event was organised by Nadine Sethi-Foley and her family in memory of their her sister Amber who sadly passed away from Melonoma age 36 last Sept 1st. As Amber was an Occupational Therapist who worked with children they decided to raise … Continued
The Playbarn in Johnstown, Co Kildare is having a Family Fun Day in aid of Barretstown on Sunday 26th August from 11am until 6pm. The Playbarn is home to Leinster’s biggest play frame, a special toddlers area, kiddy disco and indoor football area. On the 26th August there’ll be lots more on offer with family … Continued
… all because of you! Please will you do the same for another child just like her with a kind gift. Today I want to share a story with you that I’m sure will touch your heart. It’s the story of a beautiful 12 year-old girl called Madeleine. After coming through brain surgery to remove … Continued