Hi, my name is Charlotte McDermott, and I am a Transition Year student at Alexandra College.

This June, I will be walking 100km along the Camino with my classmates and teachers to raise funds for Cliona’s Foundation, an incredible charity that provides vital financial support to families across Ireland who are caring for seriously sick children.

Cliona’s Foundation helps families cope with the often-overlooked hidden costs of childhood illness — expenses such as accommodation, travel, car parking, food, specialist equipment, and childcare. While these costs are non-medical, they are essential in allowing parents to remain by their child’s bedside when they are needed most. It is estimated that caring for a seriously ill child costs families an additional €10,000 per year, and many families face this burden while also managing a reduced income when one parent has to stop working.

By taking on this challenge with my school community, I hope to support these families during one of the most difficult times of their lives. Any donation, big or small, would be hugely appreciated and will make a real difference. Thank you so much for your support.