'Colour the Creche Pink' - Triona's journey

Hi all,

This year the staff at Stepping Stones have decided to take part in the Wexford 10k marathon to fundraise for someone close to our hearts.

As some of you may know Catriona ( Triona/Neena) Hogan, our colleague, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2020. This was devastating news for all at the creche as Triona is a huge part of the Stepping Stones family. Triona is and always has been a huge character and knows how to brighten up anyone’s day with a funny story, a helping hand or even just a simple smile. She is someone the children absolutely adore and it would be rare if parents hadn't heard her name mentioned at home by them. Triona knew she had a tough battle ahead of her but that never stopped her as she took the news on the chin and fought the battle while still being the happy, bubbly person we all know. During Triona’s time of treatment she never forgot about us at the creche and always called in for a catch-up and brought some yummy treats with her for the children. Triona is and always has been the type of person to put everyone before herself.

Unfortunately for Triona this hasn’t been her first encounter with cancer as she sadly lost a sister and brother to the horrible disease. We especially want to remember her beautiful son Jack who also lost his battle with cancer in 2015 at age 14. Jack is Triona’s youngest and she is so proud of him. He was a very happy, joyful and strong boy. Although Jack had a difficult battle he always stayed strong for everyone else and we believe this is a trait Triona shares with her son.

Triona has been nothing less than a superhero to us all and for that, we would like to help Triona in any way we can. Triona was told she was in remission in 2022 but still has a long road to recovery. During Triona’s treatment, she had to undergo a mastectomy to prevent her breast cancer from returning. Triona took this in her stride and never let it prevent her from doing what she needed to do. This summer Triona will be receiving reconstructive surgery and we would like to help her in any way possible. This will see Triona go through a lot of appointments and prep work with her surgeon on top of the appointments and check-ups she will have for the next 9 years to make sure her cancer doesn’t reappear. As you can imagine each appointment adds up and for anyone who may know anyone that has gone through this it most certainly isn’t a cheap process. This is where we would like to help out while also getting help from you, if possible.

Over the next few weeks as we prepare for the 10km run we will also organise ‘An all Pink Day’ in creche where we will be holding a fun-filled day for the children. This will include; dressing in pink for breast cancer, a dance marathon, relay races, a party and plenty of treats. Senior Montessori will also hold their own sponsored walk where we will be leaving the creche and doing a 1km walk showing off all our pink.

We would appreciate any donation that could be given as every little bit adds up. Thank you in advance for all your support and for helping our good friend Triona.