Christmas swim remembers Carrigaline teenager Danny

THIS Christmas Day, Myrtleville beach near Crosshaven will once again play host to the friends and family of Carrigaline teenager Danny Crowley, for the 7th annual Danny Crowley Memorial Swim in aid of the Mercy Hospital Kids + Teens Appeal.

Danny Crowley sadly lost his long battle with leukaemia in November of 2013.

Following Danny’s passing, his friends wanted to do something to remember him  in a special way. Since Christmas Day 2013, Danny’s friends have raised a phenomenal €94,000 from participants braving the chilly waters at Myrtleville Beach in memory of Danny.

Funds raised will go to the Mercy Hospital Children’s leukaemia unit where Danny spent a significant amount of time when having treatment in 2013. The unit also provides a paediatric oncology outreach service (POONS) which enables children to receive treatment from the comfort of their own home.

Danny’s family and friends have raised a phenomenal €94,000, with over €74,000 going to the Mercy Hospital Kids + Teens Appeal. This year they hope to exceed the €100,000 mark and all funds will be going to the Mercy University Hospital Foundation.

Danny’s mom Majella Crowley said: ‘The annual swim really is a lovely way to remember Danny and for so many people now, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without Danny’s memorial Christmas Day Swim. Since the first swim in 2013, the response has been amazing and we are delighted to raise funds for the Mercy University Hospital Children’s leukaemia unit. Dr Clodagh Ryan and her team who were so good to Danny and our family which we will always be grateful for.’

She said it still surprises the family how many people are willing to take the plunge into the icy waters on Christmas Day and it’s growing every year.

‘Danny’s friends, his national school Gaelscoil Charraig Uí Leighin, Br Martin Keneally and the Presentation Brothers and the whole community have been wonderful, they really have helped to create something special. We really appreciate this support and we want to thank each and every person involved,’ Majella said.

Anyone interested in taking part can get their sponsorship cards ahead of the swim at Mano Mano Barber Shop on Main Street in Carrigaline or by calling Deborah Lonergan on (086) 3739135 or Jennifer Kelleher on (087) 9957252 or from any member of the Crowley family.

You can also make on online donation  at www.mercyfundraising.ie  by clicking on the ‘Danny Crowley Swim’.