In a heartwarming show of community spirit and personal dedication, Westlife star Shane Filan and his wife Gillian will lend their support to the inaugural Relay for Life Sligo launch event this Friday. This eagerly anticipated event marks the first time the global cancer awareness and fundraising initiative will take place in County Sligo, Ireland, and the presence of one of the region’s most beloved celebrities is expected to draw significant attention to the cause.
A Personal Cause Close to the Heart
For Shane and Gillian Filan, this event is more than just a public appearance—it is a deeply personal cause. Gillian’s late mother, Mae, tragically passed away after a battle with cancer in 2016, and since then, the couple has been active in supporting cancer charities and raising awareness around the disease. Their involvement in Relay for Life Sligo reflects a continued commitment to honoring Mae’s memory while helping to ensure others affected by cancer receive the support they need.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Shane expressed how important the cause is to their family:
“Cancer is something that affects every family in some way. For us, it’s incredibly personal. We are honored to support Relay for Life Sligo and help raise awareness and funds for such a vital cause. We hope this event becomes a fixture in the community for years to come.”
What Is Relay for Life?
Relay for Life is a community-based fundraising event for the Irish Cancer Society, part of a global movement organized by the American Cancer Society. Teams of participants take turns walking or running around a track or path to symbolize the ongoing fight against cancer. Events are typically 24 hours long to reflect the idea that cancer never sleeps, and the day is filled with music, remembrance ceremonies, survivor tributes, and celebration of life.
It brings together survivors, caregivers, families, and local communities in a unified stand against cancer. The funds raised go toward cancer research, patient support, prevention, and early detection initiatives across Ireland.
A First for Sligo
Sligo’s Relay for Life launch this Friday marks a significant milestone for the county, bringing the spirit of hope, remembrance, and solidarity to the northwest of Ireland for the first time. The event will be held at Sligo Rugby Club, where the community is expected to gather in strong numbers to kick off the campaign and begin forming teams ahead of the main relay weekend scheduled later in the year.
Organizers are optimistic that the support of high-profile figures like Shane and Gillian will help amplify the message and encourage broad participation. Local businesses, schools, and community groups have already expressed enthusiasm and have begun preparing to take part.
Chairperson of Relay for Life Sligo, Mary McDonagh, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Shane and Gillian for their support. Their involvement sends a powerful message and helps spread awareness across generations. This isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s about unity, strength, and remembering those we’ve lost while fighting for a future where cancer no longer takes so much from so many.”
A Community United
Beyond the fundraising aspect, Relay for Life offers a platform for storytelling, healing, and celebration. One of the most emotional parts of any Relay for Life event is the Candle of Hope ceremony, where candles are lit in memory of loved ones lost to cancer, in support of those still fighting, and in celebration of survivors. These powerful moments allow participants to reflect, share, and come together in a deeply human way.
Sligo’s launch event will feature speeches from cancer survivors and caregivers, live performances from local artists, and an open invitation for residents to join or form teams in anticipation of the full Relay weekend. Shane is also expected to perform a special acoustic set in support of the cause—an emotional and uplifting experience for fans and supporters alike.
Looking Ahead
Relay for Life Sligo is expected to join other successful Relay events held annually across Ireland, from Donegal to Cork. Each region brings its own flavor to the event, and Sligo—known for its close-knit community, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty—will undoubtedly bring a unique energy to the movement.
For Shane and Gillian, it’s a chance to give back to the community that raised them and continue a mission that began with personal loss but has since evolved into a larger purpose. With their support and the collective passion of the people of Sligo, the Relay for Life launch is set to be a resounding success.
As the sun sets over the Atlantic coast this Friday, Sligo will shine a new light—one of remembrance, resilience, and hope for a future free of cancer.
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