LauraLynn, Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice, is calling on individuals and organisations across Dublin to register now for its new 24 Hour Challenge, taking place on the grounds of LauraLynn Hospice in Leopardstown on 21st and 22nd May.
The 24-Hour Challenge is an evolution of the popular 24-Hour Treadmill Challenge, bringing in more ways to take part.
The campaign launch took place at the hospice, where broadcaster Lorraine Keane, Mayo GAA star Pádraig O’Hora, and LauraLynn Nurse Kate Hourigan were joined by Emily Ahearne and her mum Ann, who attend LauraLynn, to officially kick off registrations.
The fundraising challenge invites supporters to walk, run, cycle or row for a 30?minute slot on the grounds of LauraLynn Hospice.
Together participants will keep treadmills, bikes, and rowing machines in continuous motion for a full 24 hours.
Participants are encouraged to raise €250 per slot, while companies and groups can sponsor an entire treadmill for the 24?hour duration at a fundraising target of €12,000.
The event represents the round?the?clock care that parents and caregivers provide to their children with life?limiting conditions every single day.
Broadcaster and long?time LauraLynn supporter Lorraine Keane said:
“Taking part in the 24?Hour Challenge last year was an amazing experience. Every time I visit LauraLynn, I’m reminded of the incredible care, comfort, and love that fills this place.
“The families who rely on the hospice face unimaginable challenges, yet LauraLynn helps bring light into their toughest days.
“That’s why this event matters so much.
“When you take a 30?minute slot, you’re not just moving, you’re helping ensure that more children and families can continue to receive the specialist care they need.”
Mayo GAA player and LauraLynn ambassador Pádraig O’Hora added:
“As someone currently training for my own big challenge—attempting Mount Everest—I know what it means to push yourself for something that truly matters.
“But nothing compares to the strength I see in the children and families supported by LauraLynn.
“Being an ambassador is a privilege, because the hospice provides care that changes lives in the most profound way.
“The 24?Hour Challenge is a chance for all of us to step up, do something meaningful, and support a service that needs our help. Every person who signs up becomes part of that impact.”
Money raised through the event directly supports children with life?limiting conditions and their families across Ireland.
These funds help LauraLynn provide:
- Specialist symptom management
- Short breaks
- Emergency and end?of?life care
- Music therapy, play therapy and psychological support
- Bereavement care for families
LauraLynn supports Dublin families both at its purpose?built hospice in Dublin and through its LauraLynn in the Community Dublin team providing care and supports in the home for children across Leinster.
In 2026 it will cost in excess of €11m to run the hospice service with approximately 30% of our funding requirements received in statutory funding.
LauraLynn relies primarily on public fundraising to provide its care, which remains completely free of charge to families.
How to Get Involved
Supporters can now book their 30?minute slot at www.lauralynn.ie/24-hourchallenge
Whether walking, running, cycling, or rowing, every participant plays a vital role in helping LauraLynn continue to deliver specialist care to children who need it most.