Derry family taking the plunge for Foyle Hospice in memory of late father

A Derry man is set to make this Christmas morning one to remember as he takes part in the Annual Foyle Hospice Christmas Swim, honouring his late father and raising vital funds for the charity that cared for him in the final stages of his life.

On Christmas morning, Michael McCrossan and his family will brave the cold waves at Ludden Beach, Buncrana, in loving memory of his father Dermot, who passed away in the Foyle Hospice last year. For Michael, the swim is not only a tribute but a powerful expression of gratitude.

Michael, who regularly cold-water dips for his own physical and emotional wellbeing, said the decision to take part was an easy one.

He explained: “We want to give thanks to Foyle Hospice for everything they did for our family. The support and love we received during daddy’s final weeks is something we’ll never forget. The consistency of their care was unbelievable — none of us know what’s around the corner, and the hospice was there every step of the way.”

This year will be Michael’s first time completing the Christmas Swim for Foyle Hospice, joined by his wife Eimear and their children, Éabha, Níadh and Diarmaid.

Dermot is pictured with his son Michael and grandchildren.

Michael’s father, Dermot, was first supported through the Hospice Day Therapy service before spending his final six weeks as an inpatient. Michael says the compassion shown to both his father and mother made a profound impact.

He said: “My parents always supported the hospice so it was always drilled into us from a young age to give back. Of course, it hit home when dad received his diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease.

“The nurses and doctors made dad so comfortable in Foyle Hospice. We knew he was being cared for in the best possible place. They supported us through all the stress, shock, and grief — and they cared for mum with just as much compassion. We will always be grateful.”

Speaking of the upcoming Christmas Day Swim, Michael is encouraging others — whether seasoned swimmers or complete beginners — to join him for the Christmas morning tradition.

He said: “It’s a fantastic event with great camaraderie. You’re surrounded by people who are also remembering someone they’re missing around the kitchen table. It’s uplifting, full of heart, and all for an amazing cause. If you’re thinking about it — do it. It really does make a difference.”

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He continued: “It will be a lovely way for us to keep dad’s memory alive, especially for the kids. It gives us the chance to talk about him, about what a good person he was, and to honour him together as a family. We are encouraging everyone to support the hospice. We support these causes, not only to raise vital funds but also in the hope that we won’t need them.”

Foyle Hospice is deeply grateful to the McCrossan family and to all who take part in the annual Christmas Swim, helping sustain essential hospice and palliative care for the community.

The Foyle Hospice Christmas Day Swim will be taking place at 11.00am at Ludden Beach, Buncrana.

You can register online here or contact the Fundraising Team on 028 71 359 888.