A Donegal man set off this morning on the first leg of a gruelling charity canoe paddle of almost 500 km of Ireland’s waterways in aid of a local cancer support centre.
Ballyshannon resident Conor O’Connor began his extraordinary feat of endurance in the south Donegal town at 10am.
This challenging crusade is driven by his commitment to raising vital funds for Solace Cancer Support Centre in his native Donegal Town. Solace provides invaluable support and services to individuals and families affected by cancer in the local community.
He aims to paddle his canoe the entire length of Ireland’s navigable river and canal waterways from Ballyshannon to Ballyhack in County Wexford. Starting this morning, Conor will paddle over 480 kilometres (approximately 300 miles).
“Solace Cancer Support Centre offers a lifeline to so many people in Donegal during incredibly difficult times,” he told Donegal Daily.
The public is encouraged to support Conor’s incredible effort by donating to his fundraising campaign for Solace Cancer Support Centre at https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/ConorOConnor11
“I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact they have and I’m determined to do my part to ensure they can continue their crucial work. This kayak journey will be physically and mentally demanding, but knowing that every stroke brings further fundraising will keep me going.”
Conor’s route will take him through a diverse range of waterways, including rivers, canals and lakes, presenting a significant physical and logistical challenge. He will be self-supported for much of the journey, carrying essential supplies in his canoe and navigating the varying conditions of the Irish waterways.
Conor O’Connor.