Waterford and Kilkenny line up for cancer benefit
The powerful Déise men take on the mighty Cats at Walsh Park in Waterford to raise funds for the South East Cancer Foundation (SECF). The charity has embarked on its most ambitious fund-raising drive ever and needs to raise €1 million for a specialist cancer centre.
One of the May 18 match organisers, Waterford GAA county secretary John O’Leary, says the game which throws in at 7pm, is bound to attract a big crowd, given that Waterford take on Clare in the Championship just two weeks later.
Meanwhile, the Waterford and Kilkenny sides will compete for the Tom Cheasty Memorial Trophy.
The organising committee, is thrilled that both teams have agreed to take part in this fundraiser.
“It’s a massive boost to our efforts to raise money for this very worthy appeal,” says Mr O’Leary “All of us know someone struck by cancer.
“Admission to the game is €15 at the gate and every last cent goes directly to the appeal. Kilkenny are going for three in a row this year and it’s very much seen as a make or break year for Waterford.
While the game starts at 7pm, bands will perform in Walsh Park from 6pm.
SECF is an independent charity set up in 1999 to provide counselling, reflexology, massage, art therapy — and above all support — to cancer patients and their families. It now needs to double its capacity to serve its growing requirements.
“We are currently based in a temporary suburban home, which lacks the space we need to adequately cater for increasing demand,” said fundraising chairman Mel Morgan.
“Recently, Waterford City Council has kindly provided a superb site adjacent to the Regional Hospital and we are tasked with a one-off capital drive to raise €1m to build a purpose-built facility. We sincerely thank everyone involved in this fund-raiser for their efforts and would encourage the public in Waterford, Kilkenny and the wider south east to support the match and our appeal,” he said.
Tom Cheasty was a leading light with Waterford senior hurlers for years but sadly, died from cancer in 2007. A legend in hurling, he has been referred to as “one of the greatest hurlers of his era and an iconic name in Waterford sport”.
An explosive player, his scintillating runs towards goal thrilled the nation. He was a member of the 1959 Waterford team that won the All Ireland.
Tom also played in the 1957 and 1963 All Ireland finals winning a National League medal in 1963. He retained his interest in the game throughout his life.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
SECF Organising committee: Frank Hickey, Seamus Rochford, John O’Leary, Paddy Dunphy, Senan Cooke and Michael Evans.
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