Memorial Walk will not be ‘as normal’ this year due to Covid restrictions

Thousands take part in the Galway Memorial Walk each year in memory of loved ones who have passed away.

Covid-19 means the walk in aid of Galway Hospice can’t take place as normal this year, with everyone instead asked to do their own Memorial Walk in their local community or in a place that holds special memories.

Niamh McColgan from Renmore has taken part in the annual walk on the second Sunday in September since her husband Steven passed away three years ago.

“Steven was 37 years old when he passed away from cancer in 2017. He was a sergeant in the army, based in Renmore Barracks. To say he borne the illness bravely is an understatement. He was so strong and courageous throughout,” says Niamh.

“He only asked one thing of me and that was to pass away at home. This would not have been possible without the amazing team at the Galway Hospice. While the Galway Hospice is only on our door step in Renmore, we had no idea of the wonderful services available to patients and their families until Steven went under their care.”

The Memorial Walk is very important to Niamh personally “as it is my small way of giving back to the brilliant team that took care of Steven during his illness; always treating him with dignity and compassion that he deserved”.

“While things are very different this year, I do hope people continue to support the Galway Hospice in any way they can so the team can continue to provide the excellent care to people at the most devastating time in their lives.

“Assuming there are no further restrictions, myself and a small group of friends hope to meet somewhere on the second Sunday in September for a socially responsible and socially distanced walk to remember our loved ones who have passed and to raise some funds for the amazing Galway Hospice,” says Niamh

■ Registration for the walk is at galwayhospice.ie/walk or call 091 770868.