Kildare gardaí host cancer awareness event
Superintendent Oliver Henry, Sergeant Claire Malone, Amy Gibney, Sergeant Tracy O Connor and Dr Oghenovo Oghuvbu Photos Jimmy Fullam
THE KILDARE Garda Division held the first ever ‘Living Well Expo’ at Punchestown Racecourse to raise awareness of the services and supports available to serving and retired personnel affected by cancer.
The event, which attracted attendees from across the country, aimed to provide vital information and assistance to those battling the disease and was held in memory of Sergeant Rachel Murdiff of Clane Station, who passed away in November 2024 after a brave fight with cancer.
Speakers on the day were Sergeant Tracy O’Connor who came up with the event in memory of her friend and colleague Sergeant Rachel Murdiff, Rachel’s husband and former Garda Gary Cogan and Superintendent Oliver Henry from the Naas District of the Kildare. Superintendent Oliver Henry said: “It was a great day, and it was pulled together in very short notice. The event was really special way to remember Rachel and other colleagues.”
The event was also timed to coincide with World Cancer Day, underscoring its message of support, awareness, and community solidarity. Over 30 stands were featured at the event, showcasing internal Garda support services alongside national organisations such as the HSE Health Promotion section, Barretstown, the Irish Cancer Society, and the Irish Hospice Foundation.
In addition to the stands, the expo included a series of panel discussions where participants shared their personal cancer journeys. Superintendent Henry said: “The panels were very powerful and had a big impact on all attendees.” These discussions provided a platform for open dialogue on the challenges of living with cancer and the importance of accessing available services, supports and therapies.
