Microsoft charity cycle raises more than €296,000 for LauraLynn

Mayo to Donegal effort broght together over 100 cyclists and support crew

Life

James O’Connor, Microsoft, and Kerry McLaverty, LauraLynn

Microsoft Ireland’s annual charity cycle has raised more than €296,000 for children’s hospice LauraLynn.

Now in its 11th year, the annual fundraising challenge brought together 105 cyclists and support crew who over the course of three days undertook a 360km journey from Ballina, Co. Mayo, to Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

Since its launch in 2014 with just 10 participants, the Microsoft Ireland annual charity cycle has raised more than €1.4 million for LauraLynn. The vital funds help to support LauraLynn’s work in providing palliative care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. This includes expanding the reach of services LauraLynn offers, including symptom management, planned short breaks, emergency and end-of-life care, crisis care and bereavement support.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland site leader, and corporate vice president of Microsoft global operations service centre, said: “The Microsoft Ireland team and giving spirit consistently go above and beyond for LauraLynn, one of our closest neighbours to our campus in Leopardstown, and this year has been no exception. Our team of cyclists and volunteers have cycled more than 4,400km over the past 11 years, raising over €1.4 million over that period. The annual cycle is Microsoft’s way of recognising the vital work undertaken by this very special charity.

“With more than 600 families relying on LauraLynn’s care across Ireland, the additional funds raised this year – more than €296,000 – will go directly towards expanding services for the increasing number of children and families seeking support.”

Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, said: “The long-term support provided by their employees has helped us to make a lasting impact over the past decade and the funds raised this year will allow us to continue to meet the needs of children and families who avail our services and activities across the country including in newly expanded areas like the West, Northwest, and Midlands. Dedicated corporate supporters like Microsoft are central to our ability to grow and enhance our services year after year, supporting more and more children and their families across Ireland.”

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