25 business leaders from across Ireland and the UK have just completed a once-in-a-lifetime challenge—scaling the highest mountain in every county across the island of Ireland in just nine days—to raise an astonishing £1.2m in support of children and young people impacted by cancer.
The “26 Mountains 2 Mayo” is a physical and mental challenge which saw participants endure rain, winds, low visibility and grueling terrain, as well as sleep deprivation with early morning starts and late nights as they climbed a total of 11,000 metres—the equivalent of ascending Mount Everest 1.25 times*. Beginning with Errigal in Donegal on June 7th and ending triumphantly at Mweelrea in Mayo on June 15th, the journey tested every ounce of physical and mental endurance.
READ MORE: Minister welcomes new Chief Digital Information Officer
Roger Johnston, CEO of Axial3D and driving force behind the challenge, said:
“This was more than a test of strength, it was a show of solidarity with children who climb their own mountains every day. Every step we took, no matter how steep, was inspired by the families who face cancer with courage and resilience. The pain in our legs is nothing compared to what young people have to endure, and we’re proud to have walked for them.”
The funds raised will go directly to Cancer Fund for Children, a charity offering vital emotional and therapeutic support to children across the island of Ireland. The charity’s services are delivered in hospitals, family homes, and at Daisy Lodge—its therapeutic short break centre in Newcastle, Co. Down.
With demand far exceeding capacity, the charity is now preparing to build a second Daisy Lodge in Cong, Co. Mayo. Construction begins in July 2025, and the impact of the “26 Mountains 2 Mayo” fundraising effort will be felt for generations to come.
Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children, said:
“Every week, approximately 10 children and young people in Ireland are diagnosed with cancer. The 26 Mountains 2 Mayo team has not only raised vital funds, but awareness, spirit, and hope. Their passion and perseverance are an inspiration to us all and a lifeline to the families we support.”
The monumental effort was made possible through the generosity of Arachas, Ireland’s largest nationwide insurance broker, and part of the Ardonagh Group.
READ MORE: OxygenCare enhances healthcare offering with Exergen Thermometers
Joey Wynne, CEO of Arachas, shared:
“This challenge reminds us what we can achieve when we unite for a cause greater than ourselves. The strength and humanity shown by this team is nothing short of incredible and Arachas is proud to stand behind such life-changing work. Together, we've climbed for courage, for care, and for every child who needs to know they’re not alone.”
To support Cancer Fund for Children or learn more about the challenge, visit: www.26m2m.com and www.cancerfundforchildren.com.
Read the latest edition, Summer 2025, of Sync NI here completely free of charge.
Subscribe to the Sync NI newsletter for all the latest technology news, jobs and upcoming events in Northern Ireland.
Visit Sync NI online for the latest technology news in Northern Ireland.
