Derry family take part in Foyle Hospice walk in memory of Kathleen McLaughlin

The family of well known Derry woman Kathleen McLaughlin participated in last weekend's Foyle Hospice Female Walk/Run in memory of their beloved mother, who passed away at home earlier this year.

Over 2000 ladies came together for the annual Foyle Hospice Female Walk/Run on Sunday to participate in memory of their loved ones and to support the Hospice where every donation is greatly appreciated.

It was an extremely moving sight to see, as thousands of females made their way across the Peace Bridge, united together for a cause close to their hearts. 

One of many females taking part was Derry woman Caitriona Curran whose mother Kathleen McLaughlin died at home in the room she was born in, after a short stay at Foyle Hospice earlier this year.

Caitriona thoroughly enjoyed taking part with her family members, who all wore a t shirt with Kathleen’s picture on the back which read “In loving memory of our Kathleen”

“We really enjoyed it,” said Caitriona, “it was a great turnout and there were 19 of us who came to the event for my mammy.”

In January 2020, Kathleen received the shock of a lifetime when she was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer.

“She had surgery during the Covid pandemic and her chemotherapy started that summer.

“It all went well and she got to ring the bell to signify the end of her chemo.”

Unfortunately, six months after receiving the all clear, Kathleen was told that her cancer had returned.

“It was devastating,” continued Caitriona, “She was such an amazing person, she loved life.

“She worked in the Credit Union in Derry for years and she always helped the underdog.

“My mammy started up street parties in Creggan instead of bonfires and always made sure that all the children got a wee goodie bag - she was just a brilliant person!”

Kathleen had four sons, with Catriona being the only daughter, and was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren (10 grandsons and 1 granddaughter). 

According to Caitriona, her family have always been keen fundraisers for Foyle Hospice.

Caitriona Curran pictured with family members walking in memory of her mother Kathleen

She said: “My daddy took part in the fundraising cycle to Malin head and would donate to the Hospice quite a lot and my brother also took part in it one year.”

Caitriona went on to praise the “unbelievable” support which her mother received as a patient at Foyle Hospice.
“The empathy which she received from the staff at the end was unreal – she felt that helped her and she was treated so well.

“As for the Female Walk, we had such a great time and I am already getting people on board for next year!”