Bee Aware for Palliative Care

Last Sunday, the organisers of a charity event made a presentation to a very worthy cause after months of fundraising. The efforts acknowledged the support given by the Cavan Monaghan Palliative Care Team, but also celebrated the life of a woman held dear by all who knew her.
Bernie McGovern, Aughnacreevy, Killeshandra, and formerly Mullaghmore, Ballyconnell, passed away after losing her fight against brain cancer.
“My brother, Paddy, died in January 2017 and my sister, Bernie, passed five weeks later in February,” Pauline McGovern told the Celt.
“We wanted to say thanks to all the Palliative Care Team and do something to honour their memory. Our committee of five organised a karaoke evening, a poker night and table quiz, but the main event was the 5 and 10km walk.”
So the Bee Aware 5k/10k walk or run was born. Held on Sunday, September 16, the run took place in Aughnacreevy and attracted over 200 walkers, runners and supporters. It encouraged people to wear pink as, during her illness, Bernie wore bright colours to stay upbeat.
“We got so much help from our sponsors to make the day possible. Bernie’s partner Christina [Williams] did a lot of organisation. We approached it in a professional manner. The run was chipped time, so everyone could see how they did. A lot of competitors took it seriously. It was a fantastic event with a great turnout,” Pauline explained.
“There’s 11 months between myself and Bernie, we’re the ‘Irish twins’ as they say... We were very close. We will do this every year to keep her memory alive. More people will realise the importance of palliative care and the fantastic service they offer,” Pauline concluded.