Michael Noonan, originally from Ballinteer, is fundraising on behalf of Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services in Harold’s Cross, where his father spent the final moments of his life.
His dad, Donagh, is described as a “true gentleman who spent his life dedicated to those around him”. He died earlier this year having been diagnosed with cancer a number of years ago.
In his time of need, his family were “lucky enough to have the unbelievable help and support of Harold’s Cross Hospice, who provided astounding levels of care and support for us all”.
Michael praised “the most amazing staff, including volunteers, who can never be thanked enough”, which is why he has decided to take on the Melbourne Marathon on October 13 to raise funds for the hospice.
“My father passed away earlier this year. He had been ill for the last number of years. We got in contact with Harold’s Cross when he wasn’t well. We didn’t want to go into hospital when he was sick,” Michael said.
Michael Noonan with his dad, Donagh
“He was very kind and gentle. He’d be well able to speak his mind, but he wouldn’t force his opinions on anyone. He was that kind of character.
“A gentle soul who liked the quiet life. He liked reading and classical, he did some artwork and painting. He was from Tipperary originally, so he grew up on a farm.
“When he was in the hospice, we were awestruck with how nice the staff were, how nice the place was, how much volunteers gave to the place and that kind of thing.
“It was a really nice and reassuring experience for all of us, especially my mother, who would have been quite devastated by the whole thing.
“They were brilliant and I want to give back in some way, if possible, given they’re very volunteer focused and there’s just some great people there that promote the fundraising. It’s extremely important for what they continue to do.
Michael is now based in Tasmania, Australia, and decided to run the marathon less than two months ago.
“My dad was diagnosed about six or seven years ago. I left while he was quite unwell. We’ve been here for the last three or so years and we’d a trip home for a few months last year,” he said.
“My partner and I are doctors so it’s the done thing to finish up your internship at home and then come out here for a few years. We’re planning on coming home for good in July.
“I visited quite regularly, I’ve been home about three times the year prior to him passing away.
“I came home last August and September and the night before I was supposed to fly back to Australia, I changed my mind and cancelled the flight.
“I ended up being home for the nine months before he passed away. It was nice to be there when the family needed a bit of support. That was something I won’t regret, that I got to be around for that.
Donagh Noonan pictured with his dog
“He and my mother were very close, and they did everything together. They were quite adventurous; they’d be off travelling and doing their thing.
“But they were more than happy to spend time with themselves, so I never really felt like I was leaving anyone in the lurch.
“Now, the marathon is a bit of a gimmick for people at home. I’m over here and I’m doing something a bit mad on the other side of the world.
“I would’ve been fit in the past, I used to run in college. I haven’t quite kept fit since, so it’s a bit of a shock to the system training for the marathon.
“I haven’t given it too much time really, but I decided in the last six or seven weeks that I’ll just give it a bat. I’ve been training away since. I might have to crawl to get over the line,” he added.
You can find out more about Michael’s fundraiser here.
