Galway Hospice Honours Rita Molloy as 2026 Hospice Hero

Galway Hospice is delighted to recognise Rita Molloy as its 2026 Hospice Hero in honour of more than 30 years of dedicated fundraising and volunteer support.

Rita received the award from Miriam O’Callaghan, Hospice Sunflower Days Ambassador, at a special ceremony held at St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, to mark the national launch of Hospice Sunflower Days 2026.

She was one of 20 volunteers from across Ireland recognised for their outstanding contribution to hospice and palliative care services in their local communities.

Honouring Three Decades of Dedication

For more than three decades, Rita has been at the heart of Hospice Sunflower Days in Gort, bringing together volunteers, local businesses and supporters to help raise vital funds for Galway Hospice. Last year alone, the Gort collection raised more than €5,000 over two days.

Rita’s connection with Galway Hospice began over 30 years ago when her daughter’s friend became seriously ill and received care at home from Galway Hospice.

“My daughter said, ‘Why can’t we do something?’ So from that, we started fundraising — and 30 years later, we’re still doing the collection in Gort,” Rita said.

Reflecting on receiving the Hospice Hero Award, Rita said she was honoured but felt the recognition belonged to many others as well.

“It’s not just me. It’s all the helpers and volunteers who have been with me for years helping with the collection. It was lovely to be acknowledged, but it really belongs to everybody involved.”

Volunteers at the Heart of Hospice Care

Mary Nash, CEO of Galway Hospice, paid tribute to Rita’s commitment and the wider community that supports Hospice Sunflower Days each year.

“We are proud to recognise Rita’s dedication and the difference she has made to Galway Hospice over many years. Volunteers like Rita are truly at the heart of our community. Their generosity, commitment and compassion help ensure our care is there for patients and families when they need it most.”

Hospice Sunflower Days is now in its 36th year, with on-street collections taking place across Galway on Friday 12th and Saturday 13th June 2026.

Every euro raised locally stays locally, helping Galway Hospice continue supporting patients and families across Galway through specialist palliative care services.

If you would like to support Hospice Sunflower Days, volunteer, host a Sunflower Fun Day, or make a donation, visit galwayhospice.ie/sunflowerdays.