Raising awareness of Oesophageal Cancer
Lollipop Day, the annual nationwide awareness and fundraising campaign for the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), returns this Friday, February 27, and Saturday, February 28. With a powerful presence across the Premier County, the charity is calling on local communities to go "all in" to highlight symptoms and fund research into this challenging disease.
Tipperary has long been a cornerstone of the campaign’s success, driven by the tireless dedication of volunteers like Louise Morgan Walsh, Clinical Nurse Manager at Nenagh Hospital and local Councillor. Since 2015, Louise has raised over €50,000 for the OCF through Lollipop Day and charity runs.
“My family knows the devastating reality of oesophageal cancer firsthand. Losing my brother in 2015 changed us forever, especially knowing that an earlier diagnosis might have given us more time. That is why I’ve dedicated the last ten years to the OCF. Early detection isn’t just a medical term—it’s a lifeline. By wearing a lollipop pin or donating today, you aren't just supporting a charity; you’re helping us save lives in our own community.”
OCF CEO Carmel Doyle, who spoke on Tipp Today with Fran Curry, highlighted the county’s exceptional commitment. “Tipperary’s heart has always been one of the strongest in supporting Lollipop Day. We are incredibly grateful for volunteers like Louise Morgan Walsh, whose decade of dedication has made an extraordinary difference. Her impact is so significant that we’ve highlighted her story to Tipp FM; she is a local hero, and we can never thank her enough.
“We are also thrilled to see so many volunteers stepping forward this year—from Nenagh and Cashel to Clonmel and the surrounding villages. Their commitment ensures the message of early detection reaches every corner of the county.”
Ms Doyle emphasised the urgency of raising awareness. “The good news is that survival rates in Ireland have improved by 50%, yet awareness remains dangerously low. Around 70% of patients wait at least three months before contacting their GP—delays that can have life‑changing consequences. We are also urging the pharmaceutical sector to include clearer warnings on antacid packaging, as is standard in the US. These medications can mask symptoms like persistent acid indigestion, reflux, or difficulty swallowing, preventing people from seeking the medical advice they urgently need.”
She also acknowledged the contribution of well‑known Tipperary figures:
“We are honoured to have the continued support of Frank McNamara—the renowned musician, former Late Late Show pianist, and proud Thurles native. As a survivor of oesophageal cancer, Frank is a powerful ambassador and a living reminder that early detection truly works.
“At OCF, we are deeply proud of our work in patient support and research, but we rely entirely on public donations. Lollipop Day is the engine that allows us to reach more families and, ultimately, save more lives.”
How to Support:
The public can support Lollipop Day by purchasing a lollipop from local volunteers on February 27 and 28 or by donating online at the Oesophageal Cancer Fund official website.