Communities unite to remember beloved Trillick woman

by Annie Flynn

COMMUNITIES in Tyrone and Fermanagh came together for a walk starting in Trillick and finishing in Roslea as a tribute to the much-loved Martina McMahon.

Over 400 people gathered at Trillick GAA Club on Saturday to begin the tremendous 23-mile walk, arriving later that day at Roslea GAA Club.

Mrs McMahon (nee Donnelly), a mother-of-two, passed away peacefully at the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen a year ago.

The walk in her memory took around eight-and-a-half hours to complete. James, Martina’s son and a key organiser of the event, shared the inspiration behind it all.

“Mum was originally from Trillick and lived in Roslea for a long time too and had close ties to both areas,” he explained.

“I think it was the connection between the two places. Both Trillick and Roslea were close to mum’s heart so it was nice to link the two communities together.”

In conjunction with the walk, Martina’s daughter, Ellie, completed the Belfast Marathon.

Together, the events raised an incredible £21,000 for Friends of the Cancer Centre Charity.

James said, “The walk was more of an event in memory of mum but people were also extremely generous on the day. My sister Ellie did the Belfast Marathon and put in such hard work and raised an amazing amount.

“I think the money raised altogether was a testament to how many people mum did impact and how many people she had positive dealings with over the years.”

James explained why Friends of Cancer Centre was the chosen charity.

“Until you see it firsthand, you don’t realise all the amazing work they do and how much comfort they give to patients and the families. It’s nice to be able to give back to them for all the support and help they gave to mum in some difficult months for her.”

“I’d like to finish by thanking the two the clubs Roslea and Trillick for their help,” he concluded

“We expected a decent turnout but I think the amount that did show up on Saturday blew us away. I feel extremely grateful.”

To donate, please go to: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ellen-mcmahon