

Charity
Limerick family honours late mother with Great Limerick Run fundraiser
The O’Rourke family will be lacing up their running shoes for the Great Limerick Run in memory of their beloved mother, Mary O’Rourke.
A Limerick family is lacing up their running shoes to take part in the 2025 Great Limerick Run, raising funds for Arthritis Ireland in honour of their late mother, Mary O’Rourke

The O’Rourke family will be lacing up their running shoes for a fourth consecutive Great Limerick Run in memory of their beloved mother, Mary O’Rourke.
The family’s annual fundraising efforts aim to support Arthritis Ireland, a cause deeply connect to Mary’s story.
Arthritis Ireland hopes to ensure that every person living with arthritis in Ireland is supported to live a full and active life, having access to appropriate health services and treatments. The group works to ensure an enhanced quality of life for people living with arthritis, minimising the devastating effects that arthritis can have on lives.
Mary O’Rourke tragically passed away in 2022, aged just 58 years old after battling COVID-19. Mary’s immune system was severely weakened due to her long-term treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis, a condition that affects nearly one million people in Ireland.
Now, determined to honour Mary’s memory, her family has committed to fundraising through the Great Limerick Run each year and raise awareness for the work Arthritis Ireland does.
Mary’s son, Peter, said, “In 2022, my mother, Mary O’Rourke, tragically passed away at just 58 years old from COVID-19. Her immune system was severely compromised due to years of treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis, a condition she bravely battled for 15 years.

“In her memory, my family have been dedicated to fundraising for Arthritis Ireland through the Great Limerick Run each May Bank Holiday. This year marks our 4th year running this fundraiser, and our commitment to supporting those affected by arthritis continues to grow.”
The 2025 Regeneron Great Limerick Run, taking place during the May Bank Holiday Weekend, is the largest mass-participation sporting event outside of Dublin and this year is expecting a record number of participants for 2025.
Speaking about the difference support can make, Peter said, “By supporting Arthritis Ireland, we can help fund vital research, advocacy, and support services for those facing this lifelong challenge. Every contribution helps provide hope and better care for the thousands of families affected across Ireland.”
With just weeks until the event, the family is calling on the community for support with all information available on their fundraising page.