Rachel's pulling no punches for Marymount

Grab your gloves for white collar boxing charity event in aid of Marymount University Hospital and Hospice.

Rachel Cronin from Ballincollig decided to organise the Rebel Rumble fundraiser to give back to the charity that helped her family three years ago.

Rachel was studying for her Leaving Cert when her mum was diagnosed with lung and liver cancer. Her mum was the sole provider for the family as her dad passed away nine years ago. When the time came for her to receive the palliative care offered by Marymount, the staff went above and beyond to support the whole family.

“I was doing my Leaving Cert at the time and the support and help they gave me was outstanding especially considering my mom was a widow, the extra support was greatly appreciated. The nurses even spent their breaks helping me study for my exams,” said Rachel.

Now studying social science at Waterford Institute of Technology, Rachel felt now was the right time to show her support for Marymount.

When choosing what kind of fundraiser to hold, Rachel decided on a fight night to represent the battle of dealing with cancer.

“I wanted it to be something everyone could get involved in. Many people don’t win against cancer, but when they do it’s mighty.”

The event will also feature a DJ, a raffle and a screening of the Champions League final before the fight kicks off.

The competitors, including local entrepreneur Damien Twohig have been training hard for the past six weeks at Highfield RFC.

“I’d say they’re sick of me by now,” laughs Rachel. “I’m so grateful to Highfield RFC for letting us train there.”

Rachel hopes to raise at least €24,000 for the charity that serves approximately 600,000 people in the Cork/Kerry region.

“The staff of Marymount hospice do amazing work for so many cork people. I would love to raise as much as I can for them.”

The event is sponsored by SISU Aesthetic Clinic, Roosters Piri Piri and Mobster Bully Kennels.

Rebel Rumble in aid of Marymount University Hospital and Hospice takes place on Saturday 1 June at 8.30pm at Clayton Hotel Silver Springs. Doors open at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from Roosters Piri Piri, Highfield RFC (from 8pm daily) and eventbrite.ie. Standing €15, seated €20, VIP (online only) €25.

You can donate to the cause at gofundme.com/rebel-rumble-in-aid-of-marymount.

For more information check out

Rebel Rumble Cork on Facebook and @rebel_rumble on Instagram.