A mighty Movember is beginning in Muff and beyond in memory of Evan Craig as his loved ones look to give back to the Letterkenny Oncology Ward.
Evan, the son of Grace and Joe, passed away from cancer in September at the age of 24.
In tribute to Evan’s vibrant and fun-loving ways, his family and friends have volunteered to brave shaves and waxes on a night to remember in the Alt Bar Killea on 30th November.
Over in Australia, Evan’s pals Matthew and Chris are doing a skydive on 23rd November followed by a fundraising night for all friends in Oz.
His partner Cloda Mc Grath from Newtowncunningham is spearheading the initiative.
As they continue their journey of grieving Evan, Cloda says “It’s something to keep us all going”.
Evan Craig, RIP
All funds will be donated to improving patient and family comforts in the new Oncology Ward at Letterkenny University Hospital.
“They could not have gone enough for us,” Cloda said of the staff.
Evan was diagnosed with cancer in November 2023 and, over various periods, spent weeks at LUH.
Cloda is full of praise for the kind and caring staff who went above and beyond to support both patients and visitors.
She said: “Some days I was at Evan’s side for 11 hours at a time, they wanted to get me a soft seat, but they only had two and I didn’t want to take it from anyone else. They were always checking in on us.
“We want to put some money towards cosying up the family room and comforts, just for patients to have their families with them because that is what you want when you are there.”
Cloda and Evan
More than 30 men have already volunteered for the waxes and shaves at the end of the month. They can rest assured that the works will be done by professionals – Jack Mc Connellogue from JMC Hair and Oisin Harkin from Uppercuttz Barbershop will be shaving and Vanessa Canning will be waxing on the night.
Cllr Paul Canning and Cloda’s uncle Aaron Gallagher will be doing the MC and there will be a raffle alongside brilliant live music on the night from Paddy Harkin and John Banjo.
A slideshow will be on display showing Movember efforts from Australia and anyone around the world who wants to get involved.
As the Movember campaign gains momentum, it’s hoped that Evan’s legacy will make a difference to families going through similar journeys.
“Grace and Joe, myself and the rest of Evan’s family would like to thank everyone and the Oncology ward for everything they have done and thanks to everyone for their donations so far,” Cloda said.
There’s still time to volunteer for the fundraiser. All you have to do is contact Cloda or any person involved and pick up a sponsorship card. Anyone who can’t make it on the night and wishes to donate can do so by Revolut: 0861631192
