Louth people urged to sign up for LauraLynn’s 24‑Hour Challenge

LauraLynn, Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice, has launched its new 24- Hour Challenge, an expanded evolution of its popular Treadmill Challenge, with people from Louth encouraged to take part.

Broadcaster Lorraine Keane, GAA star Pádraig O’Hora and LauraLynn Nurse Kate Hourigan  were on hand to officially kick off this year’s campaign. 

The fundraising challenge will take place on May 21st and 22nd this year, and invites  supporters to walk, run, cycle or row for a 30‑minute slot on the grounds of LauraLynn  Hospice. 

Together participants will keep treadmills, bikes, and rowing machines in  continuous motion for a full 24 hours. Participants are encouraged to raise €250 per slot,  while companies and groups can sponsor an entire treadmill for the 24‑hour duration at a  fundraising target of €12,000. 

The event represents the round‑the‑clock care that parents and caregivers provide to their  children with life‑limiting conditions every single day. 

Broadcaster and long‑time LauraLynn supporter Lorraine Keane said: 

“Taking part in the 24‑Hour Challenge last year was an amazing experience. Every time I  visit LauraLynn, I’m reminded of the incredible care, comfort, and love that fills this place.  

“The families who rely on the hospice face unimaginable challenges, yet LauraLynn helps  bring light into their toughest days. That’s why this event matters so much. When you take  a 30‑minute slot, you’re not just moving, you’re helping ensure that more children and  families can continue to receive the specialist care they need.” 

Mayo GAA player and LauraLynn ambassador Pádraig O’Hora added: 

“As someone currently training for my own big challenge—attempting Mount Everest—I  know what it means to push yourself for something that truly matters. But nothing  compares to the strength I see in the children and families supported by LauraLynn. 

“Being  an ambassador is a privilege, because this hospice provides care that changes lives in the  most profound way. The 24‑Hour Challenge is a chance for all of us to step up, do  something meaningful, and support a service that needs our help. Every person who signs  up becomes part of that impact.” 

Money raised through the event directly supports children with life‑limiting conditions and  their families across Ireland. These funds help LauraLynn provide: 

• Specialist symptom management
• Short breaks 
• Emergency and end‑of‑life care 
• Music therapy and psychological support 
• Bereavement care for families 

LauraLynn supports families from 26 counties, delivering care both at its purpose‑built  hospice in Dublin and through its LauraLynn in the Community teams based in Dublin,  Cork, and Galway. 

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In 2026 it will cost in excess of €11m to run our hospice service with approximately 30% of  our funding requirements received in statutory funding. LauraLynn relies primarily on  public fundraising to provide its care, which remains completely free of charge to families. 

Supporters can now book their 30‑minute slot at www.lauralynn.ie/24-hourchallenge 

Whether walking, running, cycling, or rowing, every participant plays a vital role in helping  LauraLynn continue to deliver specialist care to children who need it most.