Donegal communities urged to Move Every Day in May for heart health

A fundraising target of €100,000 has been set as part of the nationwide ‘Move Every Day in May’campaign calling on communities across Donegal to get active every day throughout May while raising vital funds for heart health.

According to the Irish Heart Foundation, approximately 19,000 people in Donegal are living with a cardiovascular condition, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, prevention and support locally.

The campaign encourages people of all ages and abilities to take part in a simple, inclusive challenge: Move Every Day in May, no matter what the activity. From walking and cycling to dancing or gardening, the focus is on building small, sustainable habits that support heart health.

Participants will receive a movement tracker to log daily activity and stay motivated, while individuals and pharmacy teams can create their own iDonate fundraising pages to share with friends and family.

Throughout the month of May, Allcare, Hickey’s, and McCauley Pharmacies will serve as community hubs, with a series of “Love Your Heart Days” taking place each Friday in May. Customers can make a minimum €5 donation to the campaign to receive a blood pressure check at participating pharmacies.

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In addition, the Irish Heart Foundation’s Mobile Health Unit will visit selected pharmacy locations nationwide throughout the month, offering free heart health checks and expert advice, making it easier for people to take proactive steps in managing their cardiovascular health.

Emma Balmaine, CEO, Irish Heart Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Uniphar and their nationwide pharmacy network on ‘Move Every Day in May.’ Small daily habits can make a big difference to heart health, and this campaign is about making movement accessible to everyone. With a goal of raising €100,000, this initiative will support our work to prevent cardiovascular disease and provide vital services in communities across Ireland. We’re grateful for the support and look forward to seeing communities come together to make a real impact.”

Louise Martin, General Manager Retail, Uniphar, said: “Our pharmacy teams are at the heart of the communities we serve, helping over 200,000 customers annually with cardiovascular illness, so this campaign is a powerful way to bring people together for a shared purpose. ‘Move Every Day in May’ is a simple and inclusive challenge for everyone, and we are proud to support the Irish Heart Foundation in raising vital funds while helping people take positive steps for their heart health.”

Broadcaster and campaign ambassador Joe Lynam commented: “Having experienced a heart attack myself, I know that heart health is something that can affect anyone. Just by taking small steps to move your body more, you can really look after your heart health and raise vital funds to help the life-saving work of the Irish Heart Foundation.”