Construction will begin soon on a new €20 million short-stay, west of Ireland facility for children with cancer.
Daisy Lodge Mayo will be a therapeutic facility for children diagnosed with cancer and their families on the banks of Lough Corrib, in Cong.
Construction is set to begin next month, supported by government and community funding.
Following a public procurement process, the construction contract has been awarded by the Cancer Fund for Children charity to builders Connolly and Fee, with the 30,000 sqft facility expected to take approximately 18 months to complete. Belfast-based D-on Architects are pursuing a biophilic design, with sustainable, natural materials chosen to create a sense of calm and comfort.
The facility will offer families across Ireland, impacted by childhood cancer, a safe and restorative space to spend quality time together and reconnect. Families will benefit from expert therapeutic support delivered by the charity’s dedicated team of Cancer Support Specialists, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with others going through similar experiences.
The total cost to build and equip Daisy Lodge is €20 million. In June 2023, the Department of Health pledged €5 million in capital funding for the project, along with €2.5 million from the Shared Island Fund. The Cancer Fund for Children says because of the generosity of communities, businesses, funders, and donors across Ireland and beyond, the charity is now within reach of its target.
Every week across the island of Ireland, an average of 10 children and young people aged 0-24 years will be diagnosed with cancer. Children diagnosed with cancer will be referred for short breaks at Daisy Lodge by Cancer Fund for Children’s team of Cancer Support Specialists, who provide community and hospital support to families across Ireland.
The charity’s existing centre in County Down currently supports up to 1,800 family members each year. The addition of a second Daisy Lodge will double this capacity, enabling up to 4,000 family members annually to benefit from a vital service.
