A cancer diagnosis turns a family’s world upside down — not just for the child receiving treatment, but for parents and siblings trying to cope alongside them. Aoibheann’s Pink Tie was set up to stand behind these families, offering practical, emotional and financial support to those attending St John’s Oncology Ward at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin — the only treatment centre for childhood cancer in Ireland.
Aoibheann’s Pink Tie supports the whole family unit, not just the child in treatment. That includes parents carrying the daily strain of hospital visits and siblings who may be struggling to understand what’s happening to their brother or sister.
What Aoibheann’s Pink Tie Does
The charity’s mission is to develop, coordinate and expand the supports available to families of children battling cancer in Ireland. Support is tailored to each family’s circumstances and can include:
- A friendly, understanding shoulder for the family to lean on
- Respite days for families, such as a hotel overnight or tickets to a show
- Quality-of-life items related to treatment, such as memory mattresses or dry suits for swimming
- Toys for all the children in the family, not just the one in treatment
- Arranging contact or visits from celebrities
- Limited emergency financial assistance for essentials such as household appliances, utility bills or travel costs
How the Charity Is Funded
Aoibheann’s Pink Tie raises funds through public donations and fundraising events. Every family supported is referred by senior social workers and nursing staff at Crumlin Hospital, so support goes directly to families identified as needing it most.
The charity receives no government funding and no funding from the Irish Cancer Society, so it depends entirely on donations and fundraisers to keep supporting families.
How to Get in Touch or Support Them
You can find out more, get in touch, or make a donation through the following:
- Website: www.aoibheannspinktie.ie
- Phone: (01) 8851711
- Facebook: Aoibheann’s Pink Tie on Facebook
Donations can also be made directly online through their donation page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Aoibheann’s Pink Tie support?
They support the families of children being treated for cancer at St John’s Oncology Ward, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin — including parents and siblings, not just the child receiving treatment.
What kind of support do they provide?
Support ranges from emotional support and respite breaks to practical items like toys and treatment-related equipment, and limited emergency financial help with things like bills, appliances or travel costs.
How are families referred to the charity?
Families are recommended to Aoibheann’s Pink Tie by senior social workers and nursing staff at Crumlin Hospital.
Does Aoibheann’s Pink Tie receive government funding?
No. The charity receives no government funding and no funding from the Irish Cancer Society. It relies entirely on public donations and fundraising events.
How can I donate or get involved?
You can donate online, get in touch by phone, or follow their updates and fundraising events on Facebook — details are listed above.
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