Donegal man to take on Dublin Marathon in memory of mum
Jamie Sweeney will undertake his first marathon, raising vital funds for the Donegal Hospice
A Donegal man has set his sights on the Dublin Marathon in memory of his mum, while raising funds for the Donegal Hospice.
Dungloe native Jamie Sweeney will tackle the 26.2-mile challenge on Sunday, October 25, in memory of his mum Paula, who passed away in March 2026, at the age of 62, following a cancer diagnosis less than a year earlier.
Grateful for the care and compassion shown by the Donegal Hospice, Jamie decided to honour his mum and give back.
“If you knew our mum, Paula Sweeney, you'd know that even when life got tough, she'd always try to put everyone else at ease,” Jamie said. “Even during her illness, she'd smile and say, ‘There's not a bother on me.’ It summed up her strength, her humour, and the way she always thought of others before herself.
“While no amount of time could ever have been enough, we're incredibly grateful for the care, kindness and dignity that Donegal Hospice gave our family during the hardest time of our lives.
“One of Mum's greatest wishes was to be at home, and Donegal Hospice made that possible. They helped put everything in place so she could spend her final month at home under palliative care, surrounded by the people she loved most. They didn't just care for Mum—they cared for all of us.
“Their compassion gave our family comfort, guidance and strength when we needed it most. Now it's our turn to give something back.”
A iDonate titled ‘Dublin Marathon 2026 in Memory of Paula Sweeney’ has been created to raise the funds.
As a member of the Association of Donegal Celtic Supporters, Jamie has previously raised funds for the hospice; however, this will be his first marathon. The 35-year-old began preparing in June, undertaking short runs during the week and long runs at the weekend. He then completed the Donegal Half Marathon and set his sights on the Dublin Marathon.
“I’m under no illusions: 26.2 miles is a long way, and my legs have already filed several complaints. But if Mum could face everything with strength, I can certainly try to wobble my way around Dublin for a good cause.
“Any donation, big or small, will help Donegal Hospice continue providing vital care to families across Donegal. Thank you for helping us honour Mum's memory and support a service that means so much to our family.
“For Mum. For Donegal Hospice. For every family who deserves the same care.”