85-strong 'Aisling's March' to headline Derry's Foyle Hospice Female Walk
Breige O'Neill leads a powerful group of more than 85 women to celebrate her daughter's life and give back to the inpatient unit that cared for her.
This year’s Female Walk will be marked by a deeply moving show of love, remembrance, and togetherness, as Breige O’Neill leads a group of more than 85 women in honour of her beloved daughter, Aisling.
Just one year ago, Aisling attended this very event surrounded by friends and family; now, she will be carried forward in spirit, her memory woven into every step. Wearing the iconic Female Walk t-shirts, each bearing Aisling’s beautiful image, the group—known as “Aisling’s March”—will walk not only to raise vital funds for Foyle Hospice, but to celebrate a life that touched so many and continues to inspire.
For Breige and her family, supporting the hospice has long been a cherished tradition. Since 1999, when her sister-in-law Deirdre received care there, they have taken part in the Female Walk, while Aisling’s father and other male relatives honoured loved ones through the Male Walk. The hospice has been a constant source of compassion and care throughout their lives, including for Aisling’s uncle John—and, most recently, for Aisling herself.
In the weeks leading up to last year’s walk, Aisling was a patient at the hospice. Despite the challenges she faced, her determination to be part of the event never wavered.
“There was a real buzz about the place,” Breige recalls. “You could feel the excitement in the inpatient unit. Everyone was talking about the walk, and Aisling really wanted to take part.” With the help of a mobility scooter and the unwavering support of loved ones, “Aisling’s March” was born—named after a song written by a friend to honour her journey. As they crossed the finish line, they were met with cheers from family and friends, a moment of pure joy and connection.
“Looking back, that day was truly a gift,” Breige reflects. “Aisling was on such a high, and we all shared something incredibly special. The photos and videos from that day mean everything to us—they sustain us.” In a moment that now feels especially poignant, her sister joked about running the event the following year. Aisling’s quick reply—“I’ll hold you to it!”—still echoes in their hearts.
This year, as the group gathers once more, Aisling’s presence will be felt more strongly than ever. “We know Aisling will be walking with us,” Breige says. “She is with us every day. We walk in celebration of her life and in deep gratitude for all that the hospice did to support us.”
Through shared steps, cherished memories, and a powerful sense of unity, “Aisling’s March” will ensure that her light continues to shine—guiding, uplifting, and bringing people together in the most meaningful way.
You can also take part in memory of someone you love, carrying them with you in every step, and helping ensure other families receive the same comfort, dignity and support.
To register for the Female Walk, sign up online via the event page, or call into our fundraising office to collect your sponsorship form and T-shirt.
Foyle Hospice Female Walk/Run event page: CLICK HERE.
Foyle Hospice provides 9 bed spaces in its Inpatient Care Unit, as well as Day Therapy facilities, community nursing, 24/7 Advice Line and bereavement counselling services for both adults (Forget Me Not) and children (Healing Hearts).
The total annual cost of providing the services is approximately £4.1 million.