Irish Town Raises £51K in One Day for Cancer Patients

When Krystle Corrigan saw Belfast's Pink Run fundraiser, she knew her hometown could create something special. What happened next exceeded every expectation.

The Cancer Focus Northern Ireland's Enniskillen Support Centre just celebrated its first anniversary after a year that proves small communities can make massive impacts. In just 12 months, this welcoming space has transformed how local families affected by cancer receive support.

The centre's secret? Making people feel comfortable the moment they walk in. "The space is very open and we have no clocks on the wall, so there is no pressure on time," Corrigan explained.

Their biggest success came from bringing the Pink Run to Fermanagh. The event attracted 475 runners and raised an impressive £51,000, with every penny staying local to support breast cancer services. "Fermanagh just blew everyone out of the water with that one," Corrigan said.

But that was just the beginning. A ladies' brunch brought in over £7,000. Belfast Marathon participants raised another £7,700. Local company Encirc became a partner, supporting fundraising through retail events.

Inside the centre, volunteers like Anne Farry witness daily transformations. "They come in with fear and they go out with a smile," she said. Fellow volunteer Ethna Foron called the work "a joy" rather than feeling like a job.

The centre offers more than emotional support. Specialist services include bra fittings for breast cancer patients, art therapy, mental health support through partnerships, and home visits when needed. Centre manager Claire Edwards emphasized that volunteers are just as vital as paid staff in making it all work.

The Ripple Effect

This story shows what happens when one person's vision meets a community ready to act. Corrigan's idea to bring the Pink Run to Enniskillen didn't just raise money. It created a movement that's bringing specialized cancer support services to families who might otherwise travel hours for help.

The impact extends beyond the £65,000 raised. Eight couples are currently rehearsing three hours twice weekly for the upcoming Strictly by the Lakes dance competition in June. The second annual Pink Run is planned for September. A Christmas floral event and Santa Sunday are already on the calendar.

Local tradesmen built the centre using local materials and furniture, creating jobs while building hope. Every fundraising golf day, motorcycle run, and coffee morning strengthens the community bonds that make this level of support possible.

The anniversary celebration isn't just about looking back at an impressive first year. It's about showing other small communities what's possible when people choose to show up for each other.