Bringing Ireland Home: Joy, Generosity, and Ease for Mari
0% complete
$23,522 raised of $28K
250 donations
Mari Ruddy has always been a source of inspiration, strength, and joy to those around her. Now, as she faces metastatic breast cancer and has made the difficult decision to stop treatment, her friends and loved ones are rallying to help her:
- Fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting Ireland with a group of friends
- Show appreciation to the people who help her die well
- Touch as many trees as possible
- Make sure her dog Sam is provided for
- See loved ones
- Go on a trip to Florida
- Attend a meditation retreat
- Create a legacy fund to help others access race entry fees and experience the joy of movement
- Cover unexpected medical and end-of-life expenses
- Purchase a Celtic cloak in Ireland
- Host a post-Ireland trip slideshow recap
- And say "yes" to a few luxuries and simple joys she has never afforded herself
As many of you know, Mari has lived with Type 1 diabetes for 45 years, since she was 16 years old. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 and underwent a mastectomy in 2010. On June 26th of this year, Mari went in for an ultrasound to check on the cancer nodules on her chest wall where she had the mastectomy and discovered that those nodules are growing again.
In consultation with her doctor, she has learned that she has about 5-6 more months of feeling good and strong in her body. It is likely she has around 2 more years of life. Her focus now is on quality of life, not quantity. She continues to run, bike, swim, and give her time in service to the YWCA Women’s Triathlon.
Mari has always wanted to visit Ireland, a place that holds special meaning for her, and we want to make this dream a reality before she leaves this world. She has always felt drawn to Ireland, connecting with nature, Celtic music, and even learning Irish. She would like to visit Westport, where her ancestral Ruddys are from, and sit in a pub listening to real Celtic music.
The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward covering Mari and her travel companion’s travel expenses, accommodations, and experiences within Ireland. By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping Mari find comfort, joy, and peace in a time that is both challenging and precious. Update 7/29/26: Donors to the fund have made this dream possible, and Mari has bought her tickets!
We invite you to join us in supporting Mari by relieving the stress of end-of-life expenses so Mari can focus on what matters most. Your support, whether big or small, will make a meaningful difference in her journey. Thank you for being part of this community.
Mari wants you to know that your words of support are invaluable to her. Thus, she encouraged the fundraising team to create this form to give people that opportunity. Submit Appreciations
