'The work they do is brilliant'

"We have counsellors and psychotherapists, along with several complementary therapists. Some work in-house and others see people externally if that's what suits their circumstances. That funding helps us continue providing those services free of charge to our members."

Michelle Duffy, Senior Member Peer Support Coordinator with CROCUS, was speaking about the difference that donations make to the local cancer support group.

CROCUS, a peer-support service for people living with cancer, received a welcome boost recently when representatives of the Treinfhir Clan Gathering visited the centre in Monaghan Town and presented the charity with a donation.

The funds were raised during the international family reunion held in Monaghan in June by members of the Treinfhir Clan, which brings together people bearing the surnames Treanor, Trainor, Traynor and Trainer.

Joint chairperson Noel Treanor of Clontibret said supporting local causes had always been a key part of the event: "We've always tried to use the gathering to create awareness of charities within the Monaghan area. We like to keep it local," he said.

The donation came from the auction and raffle of two bottles of specially commissioned Treinfhir Whiskey produced by Old Carrick Mill: "Between the auction and raffle we raised over €1,000. We're putting half of that towards our DNA project and are supporting CROCUS with the other €500."

Mr Treanor said the choice of beneficiary was particularly meaningful because members of the clan had personally benefited from the charity's services: "I know of at least two members of the clan who have benefited from the services they provide. We're a local organisation and in everything we do we try to support local businesses, local causes and local charities."

SUCCESS

The 2026 Treinfhir Clan Gathering attracted 265 attendees to events across Co Monaghan, with more than 200 travelling from outside the Republic of Ireland. Visitors came from as far afield as Australia, Abu Dhabi and Germany, while the largest numbers travelled from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Around 50 attendees came from or had connections to Prince Edward Island in Canada, which was twinned with Co Monaghan in 1994.

Reflecting on the success of this year's event, Mr Treanor said committee members felt it was "the best one so far". The next international gathering will take place in British Columbia, Canada, while smaller "pop-up" events are planned in the interim.

Asked about CROCUS, Mr Treanor praised both the centre and its volunteers: "The work they do is brilliant. The centre is beautiful and it's important that it's located in town and easily accessible. The people working here and the volunteers are fantastic. They're very engaging, very committed and they do a great job."

Michelle Duffy from CROCUS said that the donation will help sustain services relied upon by hundreds of people affected by cancer: "€500 will go a long way here. Our biggest cost is providing therapies," she explained.

CROCUS, which stands for Cancer Resource Offering Caring, Understanding and Support, provides a wide range of practical, therapeutic and emotional supports to people who have received a cancer diagnosis.

Importantly, a referral from a GP is not required. "You can refer yourself," Ms Duffy said. "Most people hear about us through social media, family, friends or word of mouth. It doesn't need to come through your GP."

SERVICES

After making contact, prospective members receive information on the supports available and can discuss what services best suit their needs: "Once someone comes in, we'll sit down, have a chat and look at where they are on their journey. Depending on their needs, we might suggest counselling, reflexology, aromatherapy or one of our other therapies."

Among the most popular activities are the centre's art classes, which are open to members and family members: "It's not about being an artist," Ms Duffy said. "It's about getting into a state of flow, taking you out of your head for a while and helping you stay present."

The peer-support element remains at the heart of the organisation. Having previously undergone treatment for breast cancer herself, Ms Duffy said she understands the value of speaking with people who have shared similar experiences:

"The peer-support side is hugely important. Connecting with people who have walked the same path is invaluable. Peer support is about hearing what people aren't saying as much as listening to what they are saying."

She stressed that all support provided through the centre is completely confidential and noted that cancer affects entire families, not just those receiving a diagnosis: "We also support family members because cancer affects entire families. Depending on where a person is on their journey, their loved ones can be carrying a huge burden too."

The centre also offers yoga, social activities, day trips and one of its most valued services: transport to hospital appointments: "We have two cars and a team of volunteer drivers who bring members to hospital appointments," she said.

"The cost of treatment isn't just medical. Between travel, parking, food and time off work, the financial impact can be huge. Our transport service removes one of those worries," Michelle added.

Fundraising remains critical to the organisation's survival: "We receive no regular government funding. We might receive occasional grants for specific projects, but the day-to-day running of CROCUS depends on fundraising and community support."

The organisation, which formally became a charity in 2015 after beginning life as a peer-support group, now supports around 350 members. Michelle recalled a time when its future looked uncertain: "We had €33 in our account and were wondering how we could keep going. Then a local beard-shaving fundraiser raised €33,000. From there, it just grew."

Today, she said, the centre continues to thrive because of the generosity of supporters and volunteers: "We've been incredibly fortunate to have such strong support from the community. It's a brilliant service and I'm very happy to be here. A listening ear is the biggest thing. That's what people need."

CONTACT US

CROCUS is located at 19 The Grange, Plantation Walk, Monaghan, H18 R261. For information on membership and supports, contact 047 62565 or 087 368 0965, email: crocusmonaghan@gmail.com, or visit www.crocusmonaghan.ie