GARA Gang Make It Back From Wicklow Hospice

The GARA crew with Wicklow Hospice’s Allison Ryder

t was always going to be a risky expedition, bringing the Greystones Active Retirement Association down to Wicklow Hospice in sunny Magheramore.

In the end, a head count at the start and at the end of the visit meant that no Greystonian was left behind.

Leading the charge on the day was the ever-reliable Kathleen Kelleher.

And, quite naturally, the lady has a few words on the happy visit…

GARA Greystones, the active retirement association for the Greystones Area, recently visited Wicklow Hospice Magheramore.

They were welcomed by Allison Ryder, Hospice events co-ordinator, who took GARA Greystones members on a tour of the hospice. The aim of the visit was to show members the superb services and facilities for palliative care in our county.

The call for a hospice in Co. Wicklow came from the people. The Columban Sisters of Magheramore donated a magnificent 3.5 acre site adjacent to their convent. A dedicated team worked hard to make that dream become a reality.

Allison Ryder from Wicklow Hospice says, “We were delighted to welcome GARA Greystones to view our facilities. The group has been very helpful to Wicklow Hospice over the years. We hope that the members enjoyed their time here and will share our work with others.”

The Wicklow Hospice has been open for five years, and given that it does receive government support, voluntary contributions are needed to keep the hospice going. Donations are always welcome and are always very much appreciated.

Looking ahead, GARA Greystones will be supporting Daffodil Day with a big coffee morning on March 27th 2026 alongside Greystones Cancer Support, taking place in Kilian House at 10.30am.

Tea and coffee along with home baking will be on offer, plus the usual popular Daffodil Day merchandise. There is no entry fee; donation boxes will available.

All proceeds will go to the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day annual fundraiser.