Tipperary woman raises over €5,000 for cancer research
Márie Wixted raised €5,500 for the Mercy University Hospital Foundation in Cork
A Tipperary woman has raised over €5,000 for a Cork hospital in support of medical research.
Márie Wixted raised €5,500 for the Mercy University Hospital Foundation in Cork in support of vital research into myelofibrosis, a rare and aggressive blood cancer.
The Thurles woman raised the funds by opening her two-acre Garville Gardens in Upper Church, near Thurles, to the public last summer.
The fundraiser was organised in memory of her late husband, Seán, who sadly passed away from myelofibrosis in 2004.
The donation will go directly to support the MOSAICC Cancer Trials, a pioneering research initiative led by Dr Clodagh Keohane at Mercy University Hospital.
The Open Garden event last June drew large crowds who were treated to a vibrant display of flowers, trees, and perennials across the tiered gardens. Visitors also enjoyed a tour of Máire’s working vegetable garden.
Throughout the summer, Máire welcomed numerous other guests who contributed to the fundraising efforts.
At the cheque presentation, Máire said: “Together, Seán and I had great plans to develop our garden, and it has been a privilege to fulfil our shared dream in his memory.
"The fundraising efforts would not be possible without the support of our generous raffle sponsors. Thanks must also go to Thurles and District Flower and Garden Club, and Nenagh Flower Club for their continuous support," Ms Wixted added.
Garville Gardens will once again open to the public this summer, on Sunday, June 22 from 2-5pm, inviting guests to experience its floral beauty while supporting a worthy cause.
Entry is by donation, and all proceeds will again benefit research into myelofibrosis. The event will include a raffle and light refreshments.
Garville Gardens can be found at Ballyboy, Upper Church, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, E41 EN84.