Fundraising Journey from Derry to Cork: A Tribute to Lost Loved Ones

In a heartfelt initiative, Michael Scullin and Conor McGowan, hosts of the Limited Slip Differences Podcast, are embarking on a unique fundraising challenge to honor their loved ones who succumbed to cancer. The two men, hailing from Greenlough, County Derry, are set to 'draw silage' approximately 300 miles from Derry to Cork, aiming to raise £10,000 for Marie Curie, a charity dedicated to providing support for individuals suffering from terminal illnesses. This journey, scheduled to commence on August 1, 2025, is particularly poignant as it marks the 10th anniversary of Conor's mother's passing and the 20th anniversary of Michael's father's death.

The pair's fundraising journey will culminate at the Ahiohill Vintage Silage Day in County Cork on August 3, where they hope to engage the community and raise awareness for the cause. Currently, they have successfully raised £6,000 through various donations and sponsorships, including significant contributions from local businesses such as Grassmen and McKenna Haulage, which have provided them with necessary equipment and support for the trip.

Michael Scullin shared insights into the motivation behind this venture, recounting the emotional toll of losing his father to lung cancer at a young age. He described the shock of his father’s diagnosis and the rapid deterioration of his health, emphasizing the importance of the care provided by Marie Curie during his father’s illness. 'My dad was a healthy, nice gentleman when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. It was a massive shock and sad to watch,' he reflected. This personal experience has driven both men to support a charity that has provided comfort to families during their darkest times.

Conor McGowan echoed these sentiments, sharing his own loss of his mother to breast cancer. He noted that Marie Curie not only offered support to his family but also employed his mother as a trainee nurse during her illness, reinforcing the organization’s impact on their lives. 'One of the reasons we chose Marie Curie was that they were so good to my dad and Conor’s mum,' Michael explained.

The challenge will begin at 4:30 AM on August 1, as the duo departs from Ballyness in County Derry. They plan to cover 200 miles on the first day, stopping in Thurles, County Tipperary, before continuing to their final destination in Cork. They invite anyone interested to join them on this meaningful journey, which they will document on social media platforms, including TikTok, to engage a wider audience and encourage donations.

As they prepare for this significant event, both Scullin and McGowan express gratitude towards their sponsors and the community for their support in raising awareness and funds for Marie Curie. Donations can be made through their fundraising link, reflecting a collective effort to honor the memories of those lost while supporting vital services for families facing similar challenges. This endeavor not only commemorates personal losses but also highlights the essential work of organizations like Marie Curie in providing palliative care and support to families during their most difficult moments.