Ethan Holohan fundraising for National Breast Cancer Research Institute

This year, I’m running the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026 — for something far bigger than myself. 26.2 miles isn’t just a distance. It’s the space between fear and strength, between diagnosis and hope, between being tested and proving just how powerful the human spirit can be. I’m doing this for my mam, Cecilia — a woman whose strength still amazes me. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, beat it, and continued to run Terenure Rugby Club with grace, resilience, and quiet determination. Watching her face one of life’s hardest battles and come through it stronger has shaped who I am. This run is for her, and for every woman who has had to walk a similar road. This run is also dedicated to Tara Fulham — Cecilia’s best friend, an old boss of Ethan, and truly one of the kindest souls to walk this earth. Tara was taken far too soon by breast cancer during Covid, and shortly after, her best friend Cecilia was diagnosed. Losing Tara and watching my mam fight the same disease has left a lasting impact on my life and is a huge reason why this run means so much to me. I’ll be running alongside her sister, my auntie Maeve Carroll, who is also raising money for breast cancer awareness. Together, we’re running for those fighting now, those who’ve come through it, and those yet to be diagnosed. I’ll be sharing my training, weekly updates, and the why behind every mile — the highs, the tough days, and everything in between. Whatever I raise, I’ve pledged to split evenly between Pieta House and Dementia Ireland — for example, if €3,000 is raised, €1,500 will go to each. These charities mean a great deal to me, as every one of them has helped either me or my family in some way. I’d be incredibly proud to give anything back to organisations that do so much for others. If you’d like to support — through a donation, a share, or even by joining me for a run — I’d truly appreciate it. Anything that helps raise funds or awareness for these incredibl

About National Breast Cancer Research Institute

Currently, 1 in 7 Irish women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and there are 3,507 cases diagnosed annually which is set to continue to increase. These women are our mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, friends and neighbours. We know these women, they play major roles in our lives. The National Breast Cancer Research Institute is a national charity that funds a comprehensive research programme at the University of Galway. We know that breast cancer research has improved the diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes for those who develop the disease. We want to fund these research programmes to continue to impact the outcomes for those who develop the disease in the future. The research team, in collaboration with universities and hospitals across the globe, focuses on the development & improvement of diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies, to drive real and measurable improvement in clinical outcomes for breast cancer patients. RCN: 20025175

About Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026 Fundraising Campaign

Run for More Than a Medal — Make Every Mile Matter at the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026!
This October, join thousands of runners taking on the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026 — not just for the challenge, but for change. Whether you’re chasing a personal goal or running your very first marathon, this is your chance to support a cause close to your heart.
By running and fundraising, you’ll help make a real difference — turning every mile into hope, impact, and purpose.
So lace up, sign up, and run for something that truly matters.
Because when we run together, we help change lives — one step at a time. 

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