Crumlin Charity Ball highlights the need to support Cork's sickest children

The Cork Friends of Crumlin Charity Ball will take place on November 2 at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs.

The ball is in aid of the more than 150,000 children and their families who rely on the services of Children's Hospital Ireland every year.

The funds raised go to the Children's Medical and Research Foundation (CMRF), the fundraising body attached to the CHI and National Children's Research Centre in Crumlin.

Ann-Marie O’Sullivan, Chairperson of the Cork Friends of Crumlin Charity Ball Committee said the ball allows the people of Cork the "opportunity to help our sickest children."

"Last year, 1,736 of Cork’s sickest children were treated at Crumlin," she said.

"It sends a message to these children and their families that we are right behind them, raising and donating funds, so that these children can access the best care, research and knowledge to help them through really difficult times."

The ball will be hosted once again by Today FM star Matt Cooper.

Gerry Cully, CMRF said, “Now, more than ever, support is critical to ensure that sick children have the best care and treatments available.

"Almost five children from Cork every day, 35 children from Cork every week or 150 children from Cork every month attend the hospital for specialist treatments.

"We have always received tremendous support from the people of Cork and this event is a key contributor each year to this local, national and global effort to help children who are affected by childhood illness. "