The Lough Neagh Rogues, a team of dedicated open water swimmers, have successfully raised an astounding £13,701.81 for PIPS Hope and Support, following their awe-inspiring North Channel Swim fundraising efforts.
The funds will directly support the charity’s mission to provide critical services for suicide prevention, intervention, and trauma assistance.
The team from Dot’s Swimming and Open Water Club, along with the Lough Neagh Monster Dunkers, comprised of Seamus Higgins, Lee Wilson, Mark Judge, Martin Murphy, Peter Kelly, and Jordan Leckey, alongside their dedicated trainer and coach Dorothy Johnston and mentor Chris Judge, took on the ultimate endurance challenge in preparation for the North Channel Swim 2024.
Together, they completed a relay swim of 21.4 miles (34.5 km) from Donaghadee, County Down, to Portpatrick, Scotland.
Their efforts were aimed at raising awareness for mental health issues and supporting the lifesaving work of PIPS Hope and Support.
Reflecting on the fundraising journey, team member, Seamus Higgins, said: “This challenge was about more than just swimming; it was about pushing ourselves to make a real difference in the lives of those struggling with emotional distress and mental health issues and affected by suicide.
“The incredible generosity and support we received from our community have been overwhelming, and I couldn’t be prouder of our team for giving their all for such an important cause.”
Seamus continued: “We are beyond grateful to everyone who supported us — from the people who donated to those who cheered us on every step of the way. This was a community effort, and it just goes to show what can be achieved when we come together for a cause. The money raised will directly help those in need, and we hope our efforts inspire others to talk about mental health and support those around them.”
Padraig Harte, Fundraising, Marketing, and Communications Manager for PIPS Hope and Support, expressed deep gratitude for the team’s dedication: “We are truly humbled by the efforts of the Lough Neagh Rogues and the incredible amount they have raised. These funds will go a long way in helping us continue to provide vital services, offering support to individuals and families impacted by suicide and emotional distress.
“We cannot thank the entire team enough for their courage and commitment to our cause. What makes this even more special is the awareness they’ve raised throughout the journey, knowing that there are people, like the Rogues, who are willing to push themselves beyond limits to help others is a powerful message of solidarity and hope.”
The Lough Neagh Rogues’ monumental fundraising effort will significantly impact PIPS Hope and Support’s ongoing work, which includes prevention programmes, postvention support, and intervention services to those facing their darkest moments.
The funds raised will help equip communities with the knowledge and skills to recognise and respond to emotional distress, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.
For more information about PIPS Hope and Support, visit: www.pipshopeandsupport.org.
