‘Walk With ME’ in memory of Mary Ellen Molloy on St Stephen's Day

 ‘Walk With ME’ returns this St Stephen’s Day, continuing to honour the life and legacy of Mary Ellen Molloy. 

This year’s ‘Walk With ME’ 5K will take place at 12pm on St Stephen’s Day at Glencolmcille GAA Grounds; Meenaneary Community Centre (Ionad Pobail Mhín an Aoire); Ardara GAA Grounds; Narin-Portnoo Beach; Glenties Walking Trail; Lough Eske Castle (Back Car Park), Donegal Town, and the Blue Haven, Kilcar.

Mary Ellen Molloy’s untimely passing in 2019 inspired an event that has united communities locally and globally in remembrance and support. Since the first walk in December 2020, the event has grown steadily, with participants taking part across Donegal and internationally, including Australia and the United States.

Founded by Mary Ellen’s family and friends, the ‘Walk With ME’ initiative takes place on December 26 each year, offering people an opportunity to remember loved ones lost while raising funds for charities that support bereaved families and young people. To date, an incredible €83,000 has been raised through previous walks, benefiting a range of organisations including the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Downstrands Family Resource Centre, Donegal Family Resource Centre, the Daniel Gallagher Fund, and the Creeslough Fund. 

These funds have provided essential counselling, emotional support, and practical assistance to families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, a key beneficiary each year, supports bereaved families in bringing loved ones home following sudden or tragic deaths abroad. Established in 2013, the volunteer-led charity has helped repatriate over a thousand people to the island of Ireland and continues to offer vital assistance at times of profound loss.

Donations will be collected on the day, with proceeds shared between the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and local charities that provide critical support services within the community. If you cannot attend on the day, you can donate here.

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Organisers say the ‘Walk With ME’ 5K stands as a lasting legacy to Mary Ellen, demonstrating how communities can come together in unity, remembrance and hope.