Children’s Health Foundation has paid tribute to the generosity of The 2 Johnnies’ fans across Cork and throughout Ireland after the Tipperary duo presented an incredible €200,000 donation to support children and families attending Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) hospitals.

The donation was officially handed over on Saturday, 6th  June, ahead of The 2 Johnnies’ sold-out show in St Anne’s Park, marking the culmination of a hugely successful fundraising initiative inspired by a deeply personal family experience.

Earlier this year, Johnny Smacks shared the news that he and his wife Annie had welcomed their first son, JJ. Following a diagnosis of Gastroschisis, JJ spent several weeks receiving specialist care at CHI at Crumlin.

Wanting to give back to the hospital and staff who cared for their family, The 2 Johnnies pledged to raise funds to support other children and families facing similar journeys.

The fundraising effort centred around the sold-out Big Big Family Show at Dublin’s 3Arena on Easter Monday, which saw The 2 Johnnies joined by Garron Noone and Marty Mone for a special family-friendly event.

Fans also supported the campaign by purchasing a limited-edition charity GAA jersey, and a raffle with proceeds benefiting Children's Health Foundation.

Supporters from Cork were among the thousands of people across Ireland who got behind the campaign, helping to raise funds that will make a meaningful difference to children receiving treatment in hospital.

The funds raised will help provide vital supports for patients and families, including rehabilitation equipment for children recovering from serious illness and injury, sensory spaces, therapeutic play programmes, family supports, innovative paediatric research and life-changing medical equipment.

Johnny Smacks, one half of the 2 Johnnies, said: 'It’s amazing to be able to do this. Myself and Annie can’t thank the staff in CHI Crumlin enough. JJ received incredible care and support, and we wanted to give something back. To everyone who bought a ticket, donated, bought a jersey or supported the campaign in any way, thank you. This donation belongs to all of you as much as it does to us. Human kindness is alive and well.'

Fionnuala O’Leary, Chief Executive of Children's Health Foundation, said: 'We are incredibly grateful to The 2 Johnnies and their supporters for this phenomenal donation. The €200,000 raised will have a lasting impact on the lives of sick children and their families across Ireland.

'When a child is seriously ill, the impact is felt by the entire family. Donations like this help us fund supports that bring comfort, play, distraction and reassurance during what can be an incredibly difficult time. They help ensure children can simply be children, even while in hospital.

'The generosity shown by The 2 Johnnies and their fans has been truly extraordinary. This donation will help us continue funding projects and services that make a real and lasting difference for sick children and their families.'