Kildare event raises €17,000 raised for cancer support service
Poplar Square transformed into a hive of activity, with 12 hours of fitness classes, entertainment, fundraising and community spirit
The event, a 12-Hour fitathon was held in Poplar Square Saturday, July 25 and was organised by Mick Mulcahy and Maeve Aldridge of Mick Mulcahy Fitness in memory of their dear friend Gwendolyn Marks, who passed away in September 2025.
The cheque was handed over to ARFC fundraising manager Trac Power at a social event in Fletcher’s bar, Naas, attended by supporters, participants, sponsors, family and friends.
It marked the culmination of months of planning, fundraising and tremendous community generosity.
What began with an ambitious fundraising target of €6,000 grew into something far beyond expectations, with the final total reaching an outstanding €17,039.60.
The Fitathon saw Poplar Square transformed into a hive of activity, with 12 hours of fitness classes, entertainment, fundraising and community spirit.
People of all ages and fitness levels came together throughout the day, united by a common goal of supporting a charity that provides invaluable services to people affected by cancer and their families.
The event was made possible through the generosity of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, fitness participants and the wider community, who gave their time, energy and support so willingly.
Ms Aldridge said: "When we first started planning the Fitathon, we could never have imagined the incredible response we would receive.
To raise over €17,000 for ARC Cancer Support Services is something we are immensely proud of, but what makes it truly special is the number of people who came together to make it happen.”
Mr Mulcahy added: “This was never just about raising money. It was about remembering Gwendolyn, celebrating her life and doing something positive in her memory.
From the people who took part in classes to those who donated prizes, sponsored the event, volunteered their time or simply stopped by to offer encouragement, every single person played a part in this success.
We are genuinely overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to us, and we cannot thank everyone enough."
They thanked sponsors, Healy's Tyres & Service Centre, Naas, Saggart Tyre Centre and Hire Station and extended their heartfelt thanks to the many local businesses who donated raffle prizes, the volunteers and entertainers who gave their time, and everyone who helped behind the scenes.
For Mick and Maeve, the overwhelming support demonstrated just what can be achieved when a community comes together for a cause close to its heart.
"Gwendolyn was at the heart of why we organised this event, and we hope we have done her proud. The kindness shown by so many people has been truly humbling, and we know the money raised will make a real difference to those who need the support of ARC. Heartfelt thanks to all who helped.”