Young County Roscommon woman's €10,000 marathon tribute to her sister's recovery
Pictured celebrating on O'Connell Street following the Dublin City Marathon are Lisa and Alison Flanagan with their proud parents, Pauline and Michael from Frenchpark.
When Frenchpark nurse Alison Flanagan returned to her nursing career in Letterkenny last June, it marked the monumental end of a two-year chapter defined by resilience, courage, and an unexpected medical battle. Diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis in August 2024 - a rare and serious neurological condition - Alison’s world was turned upside down overnight.
On Sunday, October 25th, that journey reached a triumphant, emotional milestone on the streets of Dublin. Crossing the Dublin Marathon finish line with an incredible chip time of 3 hours, 51 minutes, and 5 seconds, her sister, Lisa Flanagan, completed the gruelling 42km endurance test - achieving the ultimate target of €10,000 for local healthcare services.
The funds raised are being split equally between Sligo University Hospital’s Neurology Unit - where Alison’s acute care began - and the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH), where her long road to recovery took shape.
While training required months of personal discipline, reaching the financial finish line was powered entirely by grassroots support. Friends, family, and loved ones rallied together - donating generously, sharing the GoFundMe page across social media, and spreading the word to make every kilometre count.
"Sharing your story takes real courage, so I’m beyond proud of my little sister for being so vulnerable," said Lisa following the race.
"By speaking out and sharing her journey, she’s helping and comforting others who are walking in the exact same shoes."
Completing a 21-week training block and crossing the finish line under four hours was a massive athletic victory, but the true accomplishment lies in what the €10,000 total will mean for future patients. The funds will provide vital support to Sligo’s acute neurology setting and support specialised rehabilitation equipment at the NRH.
For a family that knows firsthand the life-changing impact of specialised neurological care, the event was far more than just a marathon - it was a powerful celebration of recovery, family bond, and the generosity of a community.
Donations can still be made to support Sligo Hospital and the NRH via the ongoing GoFundMe campaign page https://gofund.me/b44e4f9cd
