Charity swim to remember Ian

THE annual Ian Daly ‘Swim a Mile With a Smile’ takes place this year on April 16&17 at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin 15.

Participants from around Ireland will swim 64 lengths while raising money for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, and Barretstown, a camp for children and families affected by serious illnesses.

Since the event’s inception in 2004, over €500,000 has been raised for the two charities. Organised by Brian and Laura Daly, the event takes place in memory of their late son, Ian.

Ian was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumour at the age of nine and underwent nine months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy at Our Lady’s Hospital. 

He began to make a recovery but sadly his cancer returned two and half years later. 

He passed away soon afterwards at the age of 11. 

For Brian and Laura, the swim event has been crucial in keeping the memory of their son alive.

“What the swim does is ensure that Ian’s legacy lives on through making a difference in people’s lives,” Brian explained.

Ian was a keen swimmer, which inspired his parents to organise the event.  

Money raised to date has been invested in childhood cancer research at Our Lady’s Hospital and has helped fund bereavement camps at Barretstown for families who have lost a child.

“The positive feedback we get from people who benefit from the work done in Crumlin and Barretstown is important,” Brian added. “It allows Ian’s legacy to live on and it delights us when we hear people talking about Ian. It means they have not forgotten him.” 

To obtain a sponsorship card or for more information, visit www.swimamile.ie. People can also donate €4 directly by texting ‘SPLASH’ to 50300.

Daniel O’Connor