Kathleen was fondly remembered as a 'true lady' at the special cheque presentation.

The family of the late Kathleen Lynch have raised a wonderful €10,000 to benefit the patients of the Letterkenny Oncology Ward.

The money was raised at a charity dance last month, which was held to mark the first anniversary of Kathleen’s passing.

Kathleen (née Coyle from Coole) was a much-loved mum, wife, and a friend to many. She was best-known as a postal worker, having put in 10 years of service in Lifford. She passed away in May 2018 at the age of 53.

The late Kathleen Lynch (nee Coyle) from Carrickmore

In honour of the care she received at Letterkenny University Hospital, Kathleen’s husband Joe and her children Claire and Colm decided to hold a charity dance to give something back.

Kind-hearted friends, family and businesses offered their support and donations to the event. Ticket sales, donations and a raffle (which was full of surprises!) raised an incredible €10,020.

“The staff at the Oncology Unit treated Kathleen and us very well. It was unbelievable the care she received, you couldn’t ask for better,” said Joe.

Lynch family donation to Haematology-Oncology Ward in Letterkenny University Hospital, 22nd June 2019. Pictured L-R, Dr Anwar, Dr Rittick, HCA Annette McMullan, Claire Lynch, Joe Lynch, Colm Lynch, Clinical Nurse Manager Shay-lar Maymay, Nurse Sadie Ward, HCA John Ward and Nurse Elena Toye. Photo Rachel McLaughlin

Kathleen spent many months in the ward before her passing. Joe added: “The staff were more than good to Kathleen. They were her friends and gave her so much comfort. For us as the family, they did everything they could, even if it was to bring us tea and biscuits.”

Joe has many people to thank for making the memorial dance a great success in Maggie’s Tavern.

“Thanks to everyone in the committee and to everyone at Maggie’s Tavern who went above and beyond for us. Thanks to everyone who bought tickets or gave raffle prizes. People were more than generous and donations came from near and far,” he said.

The €10,020 raised will be used in the Oncology/Haematology Patient Comfort Fund in Letterkenny University Hospital.

On behalf of staff at the ward, HCA John Ward said: “Thank you to Joe, Colm and Claire for their fundraising. The money will be used in the Comfort Fund for Patients of Oncology/Haematology. We have so many fond memories of Kathleen, she was a true lady. We wish the family all the best in the future.”