31/01/2026
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Tullamore family to raise funds for Special Care Room Garden with ‘Climb for Elaine’
The family of Elaine Healion (née Halloran), who passed away far too young on 11th August 2025, aged just 46, have come together to honour her memory by giving something deeply meaningful back to the place that supported them during the most difficult days of their lives.
‘Climb for Elaine’ is a fundraising initiative to support the refurbishment of the Special Care Room Garden at Midlands Regional Hospital, Tullamore – a quiet, often overlooked space that proved to be a lifeline for Elaine’s family and friends as they accompanied her at the end of her life.
Only weeks before her diagnosis, life was full and happy for Elaine and her family. They had just returned from what her husband Derek describes as one of the best holidays they had ever been on in June 2025. The girls were at an age where there was less minding and more freedom, and the holiday was truly enjoyed by all. Elaine soaked up every moment – out every evening, embracing the buzz, laughter and joy of being away with family and close friends.
Then, within days of returning home, everything changed.
Elaine became ill and was diagnosed with cancer. Within just six short weeks, her life was over. What happened was almost impossible to comprehend – a sudden, devastating turn that left her family reeling. As Derek has said, these are the stories you hear about, but never believe will happen to you.
Elaine was hopeful when she was offered chemotherapy. She was grateful for the chance, and she faced it with courage and determination. Tragically, she was only able to receive one session. From that point on, her condition deteriorated rapidly, and time slipped away far too quickly.
Elaine, a proud Tullamore native, leaves behind her devoted husband Derek, her cherished daughters Leah, Katie and Emily, her parents John and Imelda, her brother Jason, sister Melissa, and a wide circle of extended family, colleagues and friends who continue to mourn a woman taken far too soon.
During Elaine’s final days in the hospital’s Special Care Room, the adjoining garden became a place of refuge. While Elaine was being cared for inside, her family and friends could step outside – to breathe, to gather their strength, to share quiet conversations, or simply to sit together in silence.
For Elaine’s children and extended family, being able to leave the room, even briefly, without truly leaving her behind was a gift beyond words. Friends could be nearby to support Derek and the family, and even when they were not physically in the room, Derek knew they were just outside. That knowledge brought him enormous comfort at a time when comfort was scarce.
The family often reflects that it was a blessing Elaine’s final weeks fell in August, when the weather allowed the garden to be used. Had it been cold or wet, this vital space would have been inaccessible. Without shelter or proper facilities, the garden cannot be relied upon year-round – and many families do not get the good fortune of fine weather when they need it most.
This is why the refurbishment is so important. The family hopes to see the garden transformed into a warm, welcoming and protected space, including the addition of a canopy, so that it can be used in all seasons by families facing the unimaginable – saying goodbye to a loved one.
Adding to the poignancy of the project is the fact that Elaine herself worked at Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore for many years as a secretary, right up until June 2025, shortly before she became ill. Many of her former colleagues still work there today and continue to grieve the loss of a woman remembered for her kindness, warmth and quiet dedication.
To honour Elaine’s life and legacy, the Healion and Halloran families are inviting friends, colleagues and members of the wider community to join them on Saturday, March 28th, for a climb of Croagh Patrick. Climbers will assemble at Market Square, Tullamore at 5:30am, with the bus departing at 5:50am sharp. K Buggy Coaches have generously sponsored transport to and from the mountain. Live music and an auction will follow afterwards at The Old Harbour Bar, Tullamore from 9pm.
Through ‘Climb for Elaine’, the family hopes to ensure that other families will have access to the same comfort they were afforded – a place to step outside, to steady themselves, and to feel supported during life’s most fragile moments.
Anyone who would like to take part in Climb for Elaine, or support the initiative in any way, can get in touch via email at [email protected] or WhatsApp 089 402 1868.
Donations can be made via the iDonate page https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/climbforelaine or through Tullamore Credit Union.
Account Name: In Memory of Elaine Healion
IBAN: IE24 TURU 9910 0408 4016 02
BIC: TURUIE21###
For updates, event details and ways to get involved, please follow Climb for Elaine on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
** All funds raised will be donated to Friends of Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore. Fundraising permission has been officially granted**
