‘She was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her’

Friends of a much-loved Buncrana woman are organising a special charity swim in her memory at Linsfort Beach later this month.

Bridie McDermott passed away at her home on June 17, 2026, following illness, and her swimming friends say they want to celebrate her life and legacy with a commemorative dip at her favourite swimming spot.

The swim will take place on Sunday, September 20 at 3pm at Linsfort Beach, as part of WorldGODay – World Gynecologic Oncology Day – raising awareness of gynaecological cancers and vital funds for Cancer Care West.

“Bridie was a good friend to so many of us, and she loved nothing more than a dip at Linsfort Beach, always keeping an eye on the tides to keep us all safe,” her friends said.

Bridie learned to swim during Covid, when she attended swimming lessons. Following her cancer diagnosis, she found immense comfort and relief when she took to dipping in the seawater.

“She often spoke of how much better she felt after a dip/swim and firmly believed it helped both her physical and emotional wellbeing,” her friends added.

Wanting others to experience the same benefits, Bridie encouraged her friends and many other women to take up open-water swimming. They, in turn, brought a friend, and the group grew.

She passionately shared her knowledge and enthusiasm, inspiring many people to discover the joy, friendship and sense of wellbeing that sea swimming can bring.

Linsfort Beach, close to her home in Buncrana, was her favourite swimming spot. It was there that the group of swimmers came together and formed a little group called the ‘Linsfort Penguins’ – a group that continues, thanks in no small part to Bridie’s dedication and encouragement.

“Bridie was truly one in a million. She was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her and was devoted to her wonderful husband Andy and adored her two children, Tara and Paul,” the charity event organisers said.

Andy would often accompany Bridie swimming, and Bridie used to get a great laugh from the fact that his watch timer was always a few minutes slower than the other girls’, causing a few choice words to Andy from the girls.

Throughout her illness, Bridie bore her suffering with remarkable dignity and courage. No matter how unwell she felt, she rarely complained and always asked about others.

Her friends say they always loved the opportunity to spend time in her company and to share a swim alongside her.

Bridie was also regarded as the group’s expert in all things swimming, from choosing the right swimsuit, swim shoes, socks or gloves, to knowing tide times, sea conditions and water safety.

“No one went into the water unless Bridie confirmed the tides were safe, and depending on the time of year, she would research and let us know how long we should stay in.”

“She gave her time generously and selflessly, always putting the safety and wellbeing of others first.”

Her friends say that while Bridie has sadly passed away, her legacy will live on among the members of the Linsfort Penguins and all those whose lives she touched.

“Her kindness, courage, friendship and love of the sea will never be forgotten.”

“We like to think that Bridie now watches over us whenever we gather to swim in the waters of Linsfort Beach. Though she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit remains a constant presence among our swimming community.”

The commemorative swim has been organised in conjunction with Bridie’s Support Group, with funds being raised for Cancer Care West, which was a great source of comfort and support to Bridie throughout her illness.

“Bridie loved attending the centre and in particular enjoyed the company of the friends she made there,” her swimming friends said.

“We would be delighted to see as many people as possible join us on this special occasion, as we celebrate the life of an extraordinary woman who gave so much to so many.”