Laois woman to take on gruelling Hell and Back fundraiser for Irish Cancer Society

Laois woman Caoimhe McLoughlin from Clonaslee has started a fundraiser to raise €2,000 for the Irish Cancer Society through the Hell and Back challenge.

The 21-year-old UCD student will be taking on the challenge with her housemate this June. 

"We’re hoping that by spreading the message, others are inspired to get involved whether that’s through donations, joining the challenge or spreading the message with us. If even one person feels encouraged to support this cause, then we know this effort has been worthwhile," the pair said.

HELL & BACK is Ireland's toughest physical and mental endurance challenge, designed by award-winning outdoor specialists to push limits like never before.

The challenge is held in the Killruddery Estate in Wicklow and takes place on Saturday 7th June.

Liam O’Sullivan [22] is from Rochfortbridge in Westmeath and is studying Architecture at UCD and himself and Caoimhe, in her final year at UCD, have been housemates with each over the past two years.

They were both looking for a fitness challenge to push themselves and hope to raise money towards a meaningful cause, so have decided to do Hell and Back.

"We’ve both seen firsthand the impact Cancer has on individuals and families, such as our own. We hoped to show support, raise awareness and contribute to the research and support services that Irish Cancer society provide," the pair said.

This is both our first time taking on a challenge like this, we really wanted to do something outside our comfort zones and as final year students something outside only academics. We have both definitely started holding each other accountable as well as a small element of competition which is good towards training," they said.

Their Go Fund Me is linked here.

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"Before this we both enjoyed going to the gym and playing sports but it’s enjoyable to have something to work towards and as part of a team," they added.

"We are excited and looking forward to discovering Hell & Back, we’ve heard of others' experiences but nothing beats uncovering for yourself and hopefully if we can get through this challenge together we can look into doing more in the future. It’s not just about completing the challenge but to also enjoy the preparation towards it and to do it in a way that honours those we are supporting for this important cause. Cancer affects so many lives and if taking on this challenge can help raise awareness and funds then it's absolutely worth it," the pair said.