‘Andrea was an inspiration’
A 5km charity run will be held in Cork next month in memory of an inspirational MTU student who lost her life to cancer last year.
Andrea Baker, originally from Ardmore in Waterford, died in September 2023 at CUH after being diagnosed in June. The 21 year old was studying Biomedical Engineering at MTU's Bishopstown Campus and was a talented footballer for Ardmore and Grange Ladies Football.
On 12 April, MTU will host a 5km run with the aim of raising donations for Irish Cancer Society, Breakthrough Cancer Research Cork, and Brú Columbanis Cork in remembrance of Ms Baker.
A GoFundMe page set up to raise funds for the three charities has already raised almost €2,000.
Organiser and friend of Ms Baker’s, Aisling Finnegan, wrote: “Andrea was an inspiration to everyone she met. Andrea excelled academically, being awarded with the prestigious Naughton Foundation scholarship which she used to study Biomedical Engineering in MTU. Along with being an active member of the MTU WiSTEM Society, Andrea had a love for the outdoors and the gym and achieved a qualification in personal training.
“Above all of Andrea’s achievements, her heart belonged to her mother Antoinette, brother Darragh, her family and friends. Her love and support for all those she cared for was strongly felt and reciprocated. Andrea is missed dearly so we intend to raise donations for the charities who helped her so greatly in her last few months,” added Ms Finnegan.
Before her death, Ms Baker raised thousands of euro last July for the Irish Cancer Society, Breakthrough Cancer Research Cork, and Brú Columbanus Cork.
A spokesperson for Brú Columbanus wrote on social media: “Last year, the family of an extraordinary young woman, Andrea Baker, found solace at Brú Columbanus while Andrea underwent treatment at Cork University Hospital. Andrea's resilience and compassion deeply touched the hearts of everyone who knew her, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire us.
“On Friday 12 April, Andrea's friends from MTU are organising a fundraising run/walk around the college in her memory. This event presents an opportunity for us to celebrate Andrea's remarkable life and honour her unwavering spirit.”