Marie Keating Foundation News

RONAN BRINGS CANCER MESSAGE TO FANS

This is Bristol June 23rd 2006

Pop star Ronan Keating will be urging people in Bristol to make changes to their lifestyle and reduce their risk of cancer when he visits the city for a summer concert this weekend. The Irish singer, who lost his mother Marie to cancer, is promoting a mobile cancer awareness unit which will be sited at Ashton Gate, where he will be performing on Saturday night.

The 10-metre long unit - one of two touring the UK - is funded by Cancer Research UK working together with the Marie Keating Foundation.

Each unit will be staffed by a nurse and will provide a range of information on ways in which people can cut down on their risk of cancer by making simple changes to their lifestyle.

While the unit will not offer screening or diagnostic services, staff will be able to direct members of the public to appropriate local resources.

This new initiative builds on the successful work that has already been carried out in the Republic of Ireland by the Marie Keating Foundation. Ronan Keating and his siblings established the foundation following their mother's premature death from cancer at the age of 51.

Since its launch in 2001, mobile information units and nurses have toured the Republic of Ireland and spoken to more than 45,000 people.

Ronan said: "My mum died eight years ago from cancer and I believe that if she had been more aware of the warning signs she could still be here now.

"The statistics show that one in three of us will be diagnosed at some stage with cancer. Therefore it's vital we all know how we can reduce our risk and look after ourselves.

"I hope that these information units will help to raise awareness and encourage people to make small changes that could save their lives."

A recent survey commissioned by Cancer Research UK highlighted the fact that less than one-sixth of people knew that physical inactivity increased the risk of cancer.

Similarly, less than a third of people appreciated that drinking excess alcohol also increased the risk of cancer, and few people realised that having a low fruit and vegetable intake is also associated with the disease.

More than 4000 men and women from across the United Kingdom were interviewed to investigate people's perceptions and knowledge of their cancer risk.

Cancer Research UK's director of cancer information, Dr Lesley Walker, said: "Our research shows that there is a knowledge gap and the majority of people are still not clear on how they can reduce their risk of cancer, for example by increasing the amount of exercise that they do or giving up smoking.

"Prevention is definitely better than a cure and by taking this information directly to people and making it more accessible we hope it'll mean that more people take it on board."

Relative Values: Ronan Keating and his sister, Linda

Cancer funding 'mismatch' claim slammed

Paul Rowland, Western Mail/ic Wales - June 1st 2006

POP star Ronan Keating has hit out at one of Wales' leading health figures for claiming the threat of cancer has been distorted at the expense of more deadly diseases.

The Irish singer, whose mother Marie died of breast cancer in 1998, described the comments made by Dr Paul Walker, chair of PHA Cymru, the Welsh public health association, in yesterday's Western Mail as "disgraceful", and demanded he explain his comments in a face-to-face meeting.

It was an emotional outburst from a visibly angry Keating, speaking at the launch of an awareness project for Cancer Research UK at the Celtic Manor Resort.

Keating refuted Dr Walker's comments that cancer has a "mismatch" in funding because of fear from the public, and the preference of researchers.

Clutching a copy of the Western Mail with several of Dr Walker's quotes underlined in red pen, the former Boyzone star argued that the frequency with which people were affected by cancer more than justified the publicity and charity afforded to it.

He said, "It's disgraceful that a doctor could say something like that. He said that men and women in the street fear cancer more than they should - if one in three people are being diagnosed with cancer, they have every right to be concerned about it.

"He should take back those comments, and hopefully I'll be able to meet him so I can say that to his face. I understand what he's saying about other causes needing more recognition and support, but there are other ways of going about it. I'm very disappointed in him. It's totally absurd that someone in his position could say these things.

"I'd like to think there was an equal proportion of people supporting all the different causes, and if I could see him in person, I'd tell him that.

"You don't knock charities that are doing good work."

In yesterday's Western Mail, Dr Walker talked about cancer research getting the lion's share of funding.

Dr Walker said, "This mismatch is partly due to the preferences of researchers - cancer research is popular because it involves investigating some of the fundamental genetic processes underlying the disease.

"Anything related to genetics is popular.

"And it is partly to do with the perceptions of the general public in terms of the impact of different diseases.

"If you asked the average man or woman in the street what was the most serious disease of today, and the disease that they would most like to avoid, it would be cancer every time.

"Yet other diseases, such as heart disease, are more prevalent, and respiratory diseases, although less prevalent, are at least as distressing for the sufferer as cancer."

Keating originally set up the Marie Keating Foundation in Ireland to raise awareness and money, but is now working with Cancer Research UK in a similar role in the UK.

He said, "My mother died of breast cancer because she didn't catch it in time. Her generation was very na ve and scared of any sort of illness - it was just the way they were - and that's why we're doing this work now: to make sure it doesn't happen again.

"It's been needed - it's really, really been needed."

Keating is promoting Cancer Research UK's new Take Five campaign to encourage people to spend more time thinking about their health and lifestyle.

With thanks to Karen!

Ireland on Sunday

By Joe Duffy

"Three cheers once again to Ronan Keating and his family for their unstinting work for breast cancer.

This week, Ronan launched two new mobile breast screening units in Britain and teamed up with Marks and Spencer to raise funds for the Marie Keating Foundation. The massive retailer has pledged 30pc of the revenue from a new swimwear range to the foundation, which was set up eight years ago after the death of Ronan's mother, Marie.

Ronan firmly believes that if his mother had been more aware of the warning signs of breast cancer, she would be alive now.

We are well used to celebrities putting their names to popular charities but Ronan's perseverance and sincerity in this campaign is surely unequalled."

Thanks to Regina!

The Sun - April 27th 2006 - Thanks to Jenny for the scan! 

Please do not use this scan without asking for permission - Thank you.

Photo below - Courtesy of The Sun Newspaper

Ronan launches UK's only mobile cancer awareness unit

LK Today - GMTV

Popstar Ronan Keating has launched the UK's only mobile cancer awareness unit.

He's achieved over 10 years of success in the music industry but Ronan Keating's personal greatest achievement was walking the length of Ireland - twice- in 2003 and 2005 to raise money for the Marie Keating Foundation - the cancer charity founded in his mother's name, and Cancer Research UK.

The proceeds from Ronan's walk helped to fund mobile cancer awareness units around Ireland, and Cancer Research UK is now launching the same initiative in the UK.

Targeting the public

The mobile units will target the general public with cancer prevention information highlighting how to reduce your cancer risk. Each unit will be staffed by a nurse and will visit areas where research has shown there is a greater concentration of lifestyle related cancers.

The pop icon is urging the UK public to take five minutes and find out more about how to live a healthier life by visiting one of the mobile units when it comes to a town near them.

This new initiative builds on the successful work that has already been carried out in the Republic of Ireland by the Marie Keating Foundation. Ronan Keating and his family established the foundation following their mother's premature death from breast cancer aged 51 years. Since its launch in 2001, mobile information units and nurses have toured the Republic of Ireland and spoken to over 45,000 people.

Ronan Keating commented: "My mum died eight years ago from cancer and I believe that if she had been more aware of the warning signs she could still be here now. The statistics show that one in three of us will be diagnosed at some stage with cancer.

"Therefore it's vital we all know how we can reduce our risk and look after ourselves. I hope that these information units will help to raise awareness and encourage people to make small changes that could save their lives."

Where the mobile units will be:

April

19th and 20th April London - Upton Park
21st April London - East Ham
26th April London - Peckham
27th and 28th April London - Woolwich

May

3rd May Race for Life Battersea Park
4th and 5th May London - Brixton
10th May North West - Oldham
11th and 12th May North West - Manchester Central
17th and 18th May North West - Preston
19th May North West - Blackburn
24th May North West - St Helens
25th and 26th May Asda - Huyton
31st May Asda - Chadderton Pro Am - Welsh Open

June

1st and 2nd June North West - Ashton under Lyne Wales - Cardiff
4th June One Big Day - North, One Big Day - London
7th June Asda - Wigan, London - Leyton
8th and 9th June Asda - Bolton, London - Dagenham
13th June Ronan concert - Hampton Court
14th June Asda - Rochdale, London - Tottenham
15th and 16th June Asda - Burnley, London - Edmonton
21st June North West - Manchester Wythenshawe, London - Ilford
22nd and 23rd June Asda - Hulme, London - Roman Road
28th June Asda - Torryglen, Midlands - Coventry
29th and 30th June Scotland - Coatbridge Midlands - Leicester

July

5th July Scotland - Wishaw, Midlands - Dudley
6th and 7th July Scotland - Hamilton, Midlands - Walsall
12th July Scotland - Glasgow Shawlands, Mildands - Aston Business Park
13th and 14th July Scotland - Greenock, Midlands - Wolverhampton
28th July Ronan concert - Newmarket Race course

August

12th August Ronan concert - Hampstead Heath

September

20th September London - Feltham
21st September London - Southall
22nd September London - Southall
27th September Scotland - Glasgow, Parkhead - London - Hackney
28th September Scotland - Glasgow,
29th September Scotland - Glasgow Central London - Bethnal Green

October

1st October Great North Run Hampton Court - 10K run
4th October Scotland - Irvine, NW - Warrington
5th October Scotland - Kilmarnock, NW - Liverpool, Prescott Road
6th October Scotland - Kilmarnock, NW - Liverpool, Prescott Road
11th October Scotland - Glenrothes Midlands - Atterbury Lakes Business Park
12th October Scotland - Dunfermline Midlands - Birmingham, Gravely Hill
13th October Scotland - Dunfermline Midlands - Birmingham, Gravely Hill
18th October Hillington Business Park, Midlands - Derby
19th October Strathclyde Business Park, Midlands - Doncaster
20th October Strathclyde Business Park, Midlands - Doncaster
25th October Scotland - Glasgow Patrick Cross, Midlands - Bilston
26th October Scotland - Paisley, Midlands - Stoke on Trent
27th October Scotland - Paisley, Midlands - Stoke on Trent

With thanks to Karen!

Marie Keating Foundation and Cancer Research UK - Take five for a healthy life

Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research UK and the Marie Keating Foundation are taking their cancer awareness mobile units around the UK in 2006.

The activity will target areas of high cancer incidence and low health awareness. Cancer Research UK and the Marie Keating Foundation's aim is to raise awareness of the importance of living a healthy life to help reduce the risk of cancer.

For more information, visit Cancer Research UK

Letters in response to the Irish News of the World (Ronan’s fury at cancer snub

April 2nd 2006

Cancer clinic No shames Ireland

RONAN Keating's beloved mother Marie died from cancer at just 54, so it's no wonder the singer wants to help other women threatened with the same fate.  Women in the west of Ireland face a painstaking journey to Dublin for screening.  Out of consideration for them, the Health Minister must stop dithering.

PHILOMENA GROARKE, Rathfarnham, Dublin

It is no wonder Ronan Keating is incensed that his offer to build and run a breast cancer centre is being ignored. When his mother died he started fundraising for the Marie Keating Foundation.  Now he wants to put it to good use and pay for a staff of surgeons, nurses and back up workers. But all the government is doing is sticking its head in the sand while countless more women die.

CHRISSIE DUNNE Finglas, Dublin

Compared with our EU neighbours, Ireland's health system is stuck in the dark ages.  Every day we hear horror stories about patients forced to wait on hospital trolleys.  When Mary Harney was offers a solution for detecting breast cancer in the west she turned down Ronan Keating's offer of an 8 million unit.  She needs to do a quick U-turn and ask Ronan if the offer still stands.

PHYLLIS LENNON, Templeogue, Dublin

This government is going to the dogs if Health Minister Mary Harney can't say yes or no to any proposal without approval from her bosses.  Ronan Keating is offering to build and run a breast cancer clinic (last week's Irish News of the World) for the women in the west of Ireland.  The Marie Keating Foundation has raised 8 million for the project.  But the government has said 'No thanks' because it can build its own in two years' time. Meanwhile women are dying as they're not diagnosed early enough.

D FRANCIS, Mulhuddart, Dublin

With thanks to Regina!

RONAN'S FURY AT CANCER SNUB

Irish News of the world - April 2nd 2006

Tanaiste refuses to back life-saving unit.

Outraged cancer crusader Ronan Keating's bid to save women's lives is being snubbed by the government.

His quest for urgent backing to build a 6m euro breast cancer treatment clinic in the west is being ignored by Health Minister and Tanaiste, Mary Harney and her officials.

Ronan, 29, whose mum Marie died of breast cancer eight years ago, said, 'It's not right. I'm shocked.'

How many will die before this centre is built?

Ronan's fury at hold-up.

Incensed Ronan Keating last night pleaded for government backing for his plan to build a 6m euro breast cancer treatment clinic in the west.

He said,' the sooner the service is in place the sooner women's lives can be saved. It's as simple as that. We have offered to build and run this unit and if we can get government backing we will. I would love nothing more than for the government to come to us and say 'We will take you under our wing.' But they won't. We'll gladly buy another screening unit like the breast check unit that's now in the east. The government are saying that its two years before there is a breast check unit in the west, because that's how long it takes to build a unit and get it ready. How many people could die in that time? We've been ready and willing to build it if we could just get given the green light.'

Ronan and his family want to use 8m euro raised in memory of his mother Marie who died of breast cancer 8 years ago, aged 54, to run and staff a clinic in Galway.
He is angry because Ireland has one of the highest rates of breast cancer deaths in Europe-around 600 a year.

The Marie Keating Foundation would pay for a staff of around 20 surgeons, nurses and back-up workers costing around 4m euro a year.Ronan, 29, admits to being 'gutted' by Health Minister and Tanaiste Mary Harney snubbing the clinic plan that is aimed at helping 30,000 women.

He said,' we’ve got this money and we just can't use it to help others. We are saying we will buy the unit and put it out there and we will man it and we will manage it-if we could just have the backing of the government.'
He said shilly-shallying is costing lives.

Women in the west seeking help face a painstaking journey to Dublin for screening. Ronan said.' It's shocking, just shocking. It's not right.' He hopes the Health Minister will now act on his offer of providing help. The Marie Keating Foundation already has three mobile units operating in the west, south and east of the country.

They have a registered nurse on board to provide information and awareness free of charge-but it is not a screening service. He said,' The Marie Keating Foundation is the only service out there for these people. We have an awareness programme where we educate people about cancer to try to pinpoint all forms of the disease and what can be done about them. If they have a worry our nurses on board can help them. And if they feel they have a greater worry then we refer them to a specialist in their area and try and fast-track them because the waiting list is enormously frustrating for women under the age of 50. It's a 6 month waiting list to get screened, but we try to get women to the specialists and screened as soon as possible. The units have referred 5,000 to their GPs for further
evaluation. That's not saying 5,000 people had cancer but they're the people who felt they had lumps or they were scared and they needed to take it further. So if we're saving 5% or 10% of that 5,000, our service is working, we're saving lives.'

Dad of three, Ronan, suffered a cancer scare himself two years ago. But a lump he worried about turned out not to be malignant. And he says even after eight years after losing his mum, it's still tough going. 'I try not to ponder on it,' he said. 'At times, like my mum's anniversary her birthday and Mother's Day you can't sit around moping.'

The latest fundraising idea dreamed up by Ronan and his wife Yvonne are fragrances that are selling well-one called Hope for women and Believe for men.

Department of Health spokesman James Gibbs admitted that women in the west of Ireland are not getting adequate breast screening. He said, 'The current position is that BreastCheck is now available to women aged 50 to 64 in eastern, northeastern, southeastern and Midland regions.' He refused to comment on Ronan's offer and said they were confident Mary Harney would deliver a service to the west next year. He added, 'She is committed to the national roll-out of BreastCheck by the target date of 2007 to ensure that all women in the relevant age group in every county have access to breast screening and follow-up treatment. In this context, the Tanaiste recently met with representatives of BreastCheck and they are fully aware of her wish to have the programme rolled out in the southern and western regions as quickly as possible. Planning permission for the construction of two new BreastCheck clinical units, one at the South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital, Cork and the other at University College Hospital Galway has been granted. BreastCheck is now inviting tenders for the construction of the unit at Galway.'

BreastCheck is available in the North East, East, Midlands and South East- the West is ignored.

8M EURO IN MEMORY OF MUM

The Marie Keating Foundation was set up by Ronan and the family after her death in 1998 and now has more than 8m in the kitty.

It began as cancer awareness fund and then developed into the foundation which provides breast cancer information free of charge throughout Ireland.

It has set up three mobile cancer units based in the Eastern, Southern and Western regions.

The three units have been in operation since May 2001 and have visited 1,474 towns, villages and corporate sites in Ireland, increasing cancer awareness by providing information to over 50,000 people.

More than 5,000 women have been referred to their GP for further evaluation. The Marie Keating Foundation also funds bursaries for nurses in oncology.

Ronan, who is Ireland’s first United Nations goodwill ambassador, has twice walked the length of the country to raise money. Showbiz pals help at fundraising events, like Elton John and Bono.

With thanks to Laraine!

Fingal stars help launch latest charity appeal

Fingal Independent - March 8th 2006

TWO of Fingal’s biggest stars helped launch the The Marie Keating Foundations’ and The ISPCC’s ‘Show Your Bumper Cares’ appeal last week. Singer, Ronan Keating from Malahide and model Corina Grant from Swords were delighted to help out with the launch.

“The Marie Keating Foundation are very excited to be working with the ISPCC on this fantastic charity car magnet campaign. The money raised from this campaign will help both charities continue to deliver their vital services to the community,’ stated Linda Keating from the Marie Keating Foundation.

Car ribbons will be available in a pack of two, a pink one for The Marie Keating Foundation’s ‘Be Breast Aware’ Campaign and a blue one for The ISPCC’s ‘Valuing Childhood’ campaign. The magnetic ribbons can be placed on your car (best position is on the bumper) and they will cost €5.00 per pack.

These unique Charity Ribbons will be for sale in all Marks & Spencer’s stores nationwide.

RONAN HAS DUBLIN RIBBON LAUNCH ALL WRAPPED UP

Hello Magazine - February 23rd 2006

Ronan Keating had the launch of a new charity appeal all tied up when he got a little help kicking off a car bumper "ribbon" campaign from model Corinna Grant and six-year-old Luke Gorman in Dublin this week.

The former Boyzone star and his young aides were presenting two car bumper magnets being sold as part of the "Show Your Bumper Cares" drive. The pink ribbon supports the Marie Keating Foundation while a blue version, bearing the slogan "Valuing childhood", benefits the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

Established by Ronan and his family following the death of the Irish singer's mother who succumbed to breast cancer in February 1998, the Marie Keating fund provides breast cancer information free of charge throughout Ireland via three mobile cancer information units.

Since losing his mum the When You Say Nothing At All singer, whose middle child is named after her grandmother, has been a keen supporter of charitable organisations, and each year takes part in a lengthy cross-country fund-raising hike in his native country.

"Show Your Bumper Cares" ribbons, which cost £5 for a pack of two, are currently available from Irish branches of Marks & Spencer, and will go on sale at petrol stations across the republic from mid-March.

New Marie Keating wing at private London cancer hospital

Ireland on Sunday - January 29th 2006

(L-R) ABAI NI OGAIN, CAOIMHE NIC RUAIRI, RONAN KEATING & RACHAEL NI CHONALLAIN @ BT YOUNG SCIENTIST AWARDS		Ronan's Young Cancer Fighters Showbiz Ireland - January 20th 2006 No celebrity on the planet fights as hard or campaigns as much Ronan Keating for cancer sufferers - at the BT Young Scientist Awards last week he honoured some up-and-coming students helping in the battle against the disease. Ronan Keating has been tirelessly battling cancer since the death of his mother Marie to the disease some years back - in her memory he set up The Marie Keating Foundation charity to raise funds and provide screening services all over Ireland. Ro's charity also sponsored a special award at the BT Young Scientist event in The RDS last week and handed it over to three young girls from Coláiste Chilliain in Clondalkin for their project called: " Do different chemicals cause cancer?" The students, Caoimhe Nic Rúairi, Rachael Ní Chonalláin and Abaí Ní Ógain, who hail from the all-Irish speaking school got slightly bashful when Ronan put his arms around them to pose for photos.
For more info on The Young Scientist Awards, visit their Web Site		Both Ronan and his sister Linda were very impressed with the research the girls produced on the chemicals which can cause cancer and therefore the ones we should watch out for in our food and everyday lives.

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The Marie Keating Foundation Young Scientist Awards

VIP Ireland - January 13th 2005

Ronan presents The Marie Keating Young Scientist Award to Abai Ni Ogain, Caoimhe Ni Riain and Rachel Ni Chonnallain from Colaiste Chilliain School in Clondalkin for their project on chemicals that cause cancer,Dublin, Ireland.

Find out more at For the Record: Dr Mytoes Webquest

View more photos at WENN

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Marie Keating Foundation unit to visit Swords

The Dublin People - January 11th 2006

The Marie Keating Foundation provides cancer information and awareness free of charge to both men and women. The unit has a sitting room where people can get cancer information. There is also a separate room in the unit where people can speak to the nurse. The Mobile Cancer Information Unit will be open to all on Thursday, January 26 from 10.30am to 4pm outside Swords Library.

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Marie Keating Foundation Pink Ribbon Ball 2005

Ronan's Riding High at Pink Ball - Showbiz Ireland - November 8th 2005

Like all of Ronan Keating's charity concerns The Pink Ribbon Ball is going from strength-to-strength and this year they found a novel way of throwing a raffle.

Once again Ronan Keating's Pink Ribbon Ball has raised thousands for charity and in its fifth year running at the Burlington Hotel it looks like it is going to be a permanent event on the social calendar for a long time to come.

ShowBiz Ireland particularly liked the way they sold 40 Motorola V220 Stylish Pink flip phones for 1,000 Euro as raffle tickets, at the end of the night they randomly rang one of the handsets and the lucky owner won a MINI One Convertible! Nice...

After recently being appointed as a UN goodwill ambassador to combat world hunger, Ronan is fast becoming one of the top celebrity charity workers on the planet.

And with good humoured events such as his golf days and charity balls, his celebrity pals are always on hand to help.

Amongst the guests at the Pink Ribbon Ball were a number of high profile Irish names such as author Cecilia Ahern aswell as Jockey Frankie Dettori with entertainment provided by The Blues Brothers and Liberty X.

A few special mentions have to go to the likes of Ronan's wife Yvonne, Dr Robin O'Reilly and model Maeve Carey who all looked super stunning on the night.

Well done to all involved in last Saturday's ball which raised tens-of- thousands for The Marie Keating Foundation - this money will go a long way to help the organisation fight cancer.

More photos can be seen at Showbiz Ireland as well as The Marie Keating Foundation website, Getty Images and VIP Ireland

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Ronan's Treat for Cancer Girls...

Showbiz Ireland - October 11th 2005

Once again pop singer Ronan Keating and his family have done their late mother Marie proud with their latest charity event for the brave survivors of Breast Cancer...

Move over Bono and Bob Geldof as it seems Ireland has a new leading charity campaigner in the shape of Ronan Keating and his immediate family who are fighting daily to combat the disease that sadly took their mother Marie.

Last night Ronan and The Marie Keating Foundation put on a fantastic night of fashion in The Conrad Hotel to celebrate with 200 women who beat breast cancer with an event called Survive & Thrive... October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The Fashion Show was a complimentary and exclusive night for cancer survivors as well as members of the Irish Breast Care Nurses Association and celebrity guests who support the foundation.

The event kicked off with a reception at around 7.30pm in The Conrad where guests had the opportunity to browse the numerous exhibition stands consisting of feminine treats and delights.

As usual Ronan was on-hand to pose with everyone who wanted a snap with him - as were his brothers and sisters and father Gerry who all worked very hard to put on this spectacular show with a help from some of Ireland's top models and clothing brands.

Guests on the night included SKY News anchor Grainne Seoige, TV3's Claire Byrne, ShowBiz solicitor Gerard Keane, Geri Maye and many more...

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month hits Galway

by Gráinne McMahon

Galway Independent - September 28th 2005

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the Marie Keating Foundation Mobile Cancer Information and Awareness Unit will visit Marks & Spencer on Thursday 6 October.

The store will donate ten per cent from each sale of specially designed lingerie products to the foundation. They include pink bras, pink socks, pink sleepwear and pink t-shirts. Pink wristbands and pins will be on sale at Marks & Spencer stores throughout the country.

Linda Keating of the foundation said that the store understands the needs of after-care for cancer patients and commended its mastectomy fitting service.

The unit will be at the Eyre Square branch on 6 October from 10.30am until 4pm.

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'Merger' deal for Marie Keating Foundation

September 4th 2005 By Michelle Devane

ThePost.ie

Foundation chairman David Hall said he had been in talks for a year with Cancer Research UK. “We were meant to finalise the partnership on July 7 but we postponed the meeting because of the London bombings. Cancer Research UK hopes to act as an umbrella organisation to the foundation and we hope that the relationship will bolster fundraising achievements for both charities,” said Hall.

In an interview with a British newspaper, Keating described the deal as a “merger'‘ between the two charities. The former singer with Boyzone, he set up the charity to provide cancer information after his mother died from breast cancer. It is a small organisation compared with Cancer Research UK, which is one of the largest cancer charities in Europe, raising about stg£213 million annually.

The latest accounts for the Marie Keating Foundation show an income of €647,000, administration expenses of just over €100,000 and operating expenses of €525,000, details of which are undisclosed.

The accounts show a surplus of €20,000 in 2003. The foundation had an accumulated surplus of €511,000 at the end of 2003 because of a surplus carried forward from previous years. Ronan, Gerard, Gary and Ciaran Keating are listed as the directors of the foundation. Keating has supported Cancer Research UK for three years, attending events and backing cancer awareness campaigns.

He completed a 361-mile walk from Antrim to Cork in May. The stg£10,000 raised while walking through the North was donated to Cancer Research Northern Ireland, while €138,000 was raised for the Marie Keating Foundation.

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Cork Ladies Mini Marathon in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation

Red FM - September 2nd 2005

On Sunday, September 18th, RedFM DJ Martina O'Donoghue (The Red Zone, Mon - Fri, 2-5pm) will be taking part in the Cork Mini Marathon in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation. Martina is urging RedFM listeners to get involved and walk with her on the day, for this very worthy cause.

Following the untimely death of Marie Keating from breast cancer in February 1998, her family made the decision to establish a fund, which they named the Marie Keating Cancer Awareness Fund.

The foundation has been established primarily to provide Breast Cancer Information and Awareness free of charge to the general public throughout the Republic of Ireland through three Mobile Cancer Information Units based in the Eastern, Western and Southern regions of Ireland.

The three Mobile Cancer Information Units are in operation since May 2001, and to date they have visited over 1,474 towns, villages and corporate sites in Ireland increasing breast cancer awareness by providing information to over 40,048 people. A staggering 2,197 women have been referred to their GP for further evaluation. The Marie Keating Foundation also funds Bursary’s for Nurses in Oncology.

All money raised from participation in the Cork Mini Marathon will support the fight against cancer and go towards maintaining the three Mobile Cancer Information Units.

Sponsorship cards and t-shirts can be received from the Marie Keating Foundation by phoning (01) 6246314. For further information on the work of the foundation e-mail info@mariekeating.com or log onto the website www.mariekeating.com

A prize of a Marie Keating Foundation navy windbreaker is offered for anyone who raises sponsorship of €250. In addition, all participants are automatically entered into a draw to win an exhilerating opportunity of driving in a Lotus Elite 111R car for an entire weekend. Terms and Conditions apply.

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RYDER CUP VENUE TO STAGE 2005 GARY PLAYER INVITATIONAL

The Wire - June 29th 2005

June 22nd, 2005 - The K Club, venue for the 2006 Ryder Cup, will stage the prestigious 2005 Gary Player Invitational (GPI) charity golf event. The event takes place Sunday 17th - Monday 18th July, is sponsored by Coca-Cola and hosted by singing sensation Ronan Keating.

The move to Ireland this year sees the coming together of two fine charity golf events, which have raised millions of dollars for their respective charities through the years. This year is set to raise even more money as one of the finest gatherings of Pro golfers, celebrities and leading businesses once again join together for the annual celebration of golf and giving. Tim Clark, Lee Westwood, Andrew Coltart and Alastair Forsyth, as well as celebrities from the sports, entertainment and media worlds will join Gary Player and Ronan Keating at the K Club.

The Gary Player Invitational is one event in a global series presented by Coca-Cola, benefiting The Player Foundation, Marie Keating Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. Senior officials will represent all three charities at the event. The series culminates at the annual Nelson Mandela Invitational, South Africa's premier charity golf event held at the exclusive Arabella Estate near Cape Town.

The event provides an opportunity for business people to experience a professional standard of golf event, while interacting with stars of sport, media and entertainment.

Teams are made up of three amateur golfers, joined by either a professional golfer or celebrity. The teams compete in a team alliance format competition. Surrounding the golf is a Champagne Welcome Reception the night before to relax everyone before the competition that lies ahead, and an official Auction Dinner to close off proceedings, during which time select memorabilia and collectables will be auctioned off to the highest bidders.

For more information go to www.garyplayerinvitational.com

Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca Cola hosted by Ronan Keating will take place at the stunning K Club in County Kildare Ireland on Monday 18th July 2005.

Every year, each three person team is assigned a well known celebrity.  Last years celebrity participants were Gary Lineker, David Carter, Alan Hansen, Nick Faldo to name a few.

Funds will directly support the Marie Keating Foundation, The Gary Player Foundation and The Nelson Mandela Childrens Fund.

To participate in this unique event, please contact Gary Keating on 00353 45856188 or 00353 87 2287541 or email gary@garykeating.com.

You can also contact Linda Keating at the Marie Keating Foundation office on 01 6246314.

Thanks to Debbie!

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Marie Keating Foundation awarded €6,300 grant by DeCare International

DeCare - June 9th 2005 (Adobe Acrobat Reader required)

A €6,300 grant has been awarded to the Marie Keating foundation, a cancer raising awareness non-profit organisation, in an effort to promote health - particularly oral health - and support educational initiatives that address innovative solutions to the challenges of healthy living. The funds awarded to the Marie Keating Foundation will be used to raise awareness of oral cancer, train Marie Keating Foundation staff and produce an informational leaflet on oral cancer.

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Ronan’s in town to collect massive Salerno cheque

Ronan Keating is paying a flying visit to the Ardilaun House Hotel, Taylor's Hill this morning to congratulate the students of Salerno Secondary School for raising a staggering € 45,000 for the Marie Keating Foundation, an organisation that promotes education and awareness about breast cancer nationwide.

The pop star is due to land at the Ardilaun House Hotel by helicopter to meet with the students and to accept the cheque for the sum of € 45,000 on behalf of the Marie Keating Foundation. He will be accompanied by his sister Linda Keating, other members of the Keating family, and representatives of the foundation which was established in memory of Ronan's mother Marie Keating who tragically lost her life to breast cancer.

Led by PE teacher June Smith ‘The Salerno Challenge 2004’ began last February and has captured the imaginations of staff and students alike. A huge amount of fundraising events were organised by each class including garden fetes, cake, book, and plant sales, supermarket bag-packing, flag days, car washing, and food at breaks.

The challenge resulted in a total of € 90,000 being raised in a period of four months between February and May -- 50 per cent of which goes to the Marie Keating Foundation and 50 per cent to the Salerno School Fund.

The final day of The Salerno Challenge 2004 involved the entire school body marching into Galway in three different colours over three different bridges meeting up in Mainguard Street before advancing to the city centre and performing a concert for the public.

The girls from the sports committee responsible for co-ordinating the challenge said they could never have imagined how satisfying, enjoyable, and challenging the fundraising activities could have been. They said that there has been a great sense of students, parents, and staff working together in a team.

They also feel they have gained tremendous experience in dealing with their peers and members of the public and this will go down as one of those great memories from their school days, said a spokesperson.

Today's event begins with an novel theatrical representation written, narrated, and performed by a group of junior and senior students depicting the various fundraising efforts. The performance involves a modern dance routine to various relevant tunes including 'I had a dream', 'Mamia Mia', 'Money, money, money', and 'Life is a roller coaster.'

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Mobile breast cancer unit to visit Ballinasloe

BY MARY O'CONNOR

Galway Advertiser - September 2nd 2004

People can learn more about breast cancer - a condition which strikes 98 Galway women each year - when a mobile breast cancer education and awareness unit visits Ballinasloe today (Thursday) September 2.

The unit, one of three which travels countrywide distributing information and heightening awareness about breast cancer, is funded by the Marie Keating Foundation - an organisation set up by pop star Ronan Keating in memory of his mother who died from the disease. It will be based outside the AIB from 10.30am to 4pm.

The unit, which is based in the west, is staffed by a registered nurse who will be on hand to answer people's queries. The organisers stress this is not a breast screening service. However, the unit provides information on other cancers, including prostate and testicular cancer.

Early detection is critical for treatment and survival, says the foundation which was set up in April 2001. Breast cancer affects one in 11 and is the most common cause of death in middle-aged women and the second most common in 25-34-year-olds. About 1,700 women are diagnosed with it in Ireland every year. Some 650 die from the disease annually. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age.

A spokesperson for the foundation says the units offer an unintrusive method of learning about breast cancer. They are concerned solely with creating awareness.

"The Marie Keating Foundation was established primarily to provide breast cancer information and awareness free of charge to the public throughout Ireland. Our ambition is to enlighten, not to frighten. The earlier a cancer is diagnosed and treated, the greater the chance of a cure. Staff on the units are fully trained in dealing with health awareness and will refer individuals if necessary for further help. We have had great success to date with over 22,395 people visiting our nurses on the units."

For further information access the Marie Keating Foundation website at: www.mariekeating.com

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Munster Cycle Tour in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation

The Marie Keating Foundation are seeking volunteers to collect for breast cancer.

On Thursday 26 August a team of ‘leisure’ cyclists from Motorola in Cork will commence a demanding 4-day 600km cycle for charity that will take them through all the counties of Munster. The chosen beneficiary for the 2004 edition of this “Tour de Munster” is The Marie Keating Foundation.

“Tour de Munster” 2004 Route

Stage 1 Thu. Aug. 26th:

Cork – Midleton – Tallow – Lismore – The Vee – Clogheen – Cahir – Bansha – Tipperary – Limerick

Stage 2 Fri. Aug. 27th

Limerick – Ennis – Killimer – Tarbert – Listowel – Tralee – Castlegregory

Stage 3 Sat. Aug. 28th

Castlegregory – Conor Pass - Dingle – Annascaul – Castlemaine – Milltown – Killarney – Kenmare – Lauragh

Stage 4 Sun. Aug 29th

Lauragh – Healy Pass – Glengarriff – Bantry – Dunmanway – Bandon Innishannon – Cork

All monies raised go towards the Marie Keating Foundations Cancer information mobile units which have been established primarily to provide Breast Cancer Information and Awareness free of charge to the general public throughout the Republic of Ireland

Each volunteer will be given collection permits, buckets, tee shirts etc from the Marie Keating Foundation office. Please contact Linda on 087 2181318 or Barbara on 087 6313250.

For further information please contact our office :Phone: 01 6246314 or e-mail info@mariekeating.com

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Buy Power Plus Alkaline Batteries and help the Marie Keating Foundation fight Breast and other Cancers

By purchasing these Alkaline Batteries you are helping the Marie Keating Foundation in their fight against Breast and other Cancers.

The Marie Keating Foundation has three Mobile Units which travel countrywide with a registered Nurse providing Cancer Information and Awareness to the general public free of charge. The Foundation also funds seminars and bursary’s for Oncology Nurses. To become a volunteer or obtain details of upcoming events and Cancer Information please contact by web on www.mariekeating.com or call 01-6246314.

Remember, every time you buy Pink Ribbon Batteries you are contributing to the fight against cancer.

For details of your nearest supplier or outlet please contact us at 029-69951 or info@powerplus.ie

Click on the Power Plus logo above to visit the Power Plus website.

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Marie Keating Foundation seeks volunteers

Nenagh Guardian - August 14th 2004

At the end of August, a team of cyclists from Motorola in Cork will commence a demanding four-day 600km cycle for the Marie Keating Foundaion that will take them through all the counties of Munster.  Stage 1 of the ‘Tour de Munster’, which begins on Thursday, August 26, should see the cyclists pass through Cahir, Bansha and Tipperary town.  They will continue through Limerick, Clare and Kerry before finishing up in Cork on Sunday, August 29.

The Marie Keating Foundation is appealing for volunteers to collect for breast cancer in their local town for the duration of the tour.  All monies raised go towards maintaining the Marie Keating

Foundation’s three mobile units which, staffed with a registered nurse, provide cancer information free of charge to the general public. The units are based in the eastern, western and southern regions of Ireland. Since its foundation in May 2001 by Ronan Keating in memory of his mother, the foundation has provided information to over 3,407 women, a staggering 1,824 of which have been referred to their GP for further evaluation. The Marie Keating Foundation also funds bursaries for nurses in oncology.

To become a volunteer, contact Linda on 087 2181318 or Barbara on 087 6313250. For further information log on to www.mariekeating.com.

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Bikers to raise funds for breast cancer

Limerick Post

A CHARITY run in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation will be held on Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14.

The run has been organised by the Black Widows and the Jesters motorcycling clubs and will finish up in Athlone on Saturday afternoon, August 14 .

"Participants are invited to a closing party in Athlone GAA Club on Saturday night,” said a spokesperson for the Marie Keating Foundation, who added:

"The aim of the charity run is to travel 32 counties of Ireland within 24 hours but this is not a race - 24 hours plus is permitted. We are seeking participants to take part in this exciting event to support our fight against breast and other cancers.

"All monies raised go towards maintaining the Marie Keating Foundation’s three mobile units which, staffed with a registered nurse, travel to all towns, cities and corporate sites providing cancer information and awareness free of charge to the general public. Our units are based in the Eastern, Western and Southern regions of Ireland and since going on the road in May 2001 we have visited over 1,180 sites and provided information to over 33,407 people. Some 1,824 women have been referred to their GP for further evaluation. The Foundation also funds bursaries for nurses in Oncology.

Information packs are available from the Marie Keating Foundation, Unit 4 Leixlip Shopping Mall, Leixlip , Co Kildare. Phone 01 6246314 or email info@mariekeating.com.

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Mobile breast cancer unit to visit Salthill - BY MARY O'CONNOR

Galway Advertiser - July 1st 2004

People can learn more about breast cancer - the condition which strikes 98 Galway women each year - when a mobile breast cancer education and awareness unit visits Salthill on Thursday July 8.

The unit, one of three which travels countrywide distributing information and heightening awareness about breast cancer, is funded by the Marie Keating Foundation - an organisation set up by pop star Ronan Keating in memory of his mother who died from the disease. It will visit Seapoint Car Park from 11am to 4pm.

The unit, which is based in the west, is staffed by a registered nurse who will be on hand to answer people's queries. The organisers stress this is not a breast screening service. However, the unit provides information on other cancers, including prostate and testicular cancer.

Early detection is critical for treatment and survival, says the foundation which was set up in April 2001. Breast cancer affects one in 11 and is the most common cause of death in middle-aged women and the second most common in 25-34-year-olds. About 1,700 women are diagnosed with it in Ireland every year. Some 650 die from the disease annually. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age.

A spokesperson for the foundation says the units offer an unintrusive method of learning about breast cancer. They are concerned solely with creating awareness.

"Our ambition is to enlighten, not to frighten. Staff on the units are fully trained in dealing with health awareness and promotion and will refer individuals as necessary for further help. We have had great success to date with over 22,395 people visiting our nurses on the units."

The service provided by the breast cancer units is free and people are encouraged to come along.

For further information access the Marie Keating Foundation website at www.mariekeating.com

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Take Ronan's advice, chaps  - June 22nd 2004 By Evening Gazette

Singer Ronan Keating has talked about his testicular cancer scare after discovering a lump while he was on holiday.

"I was in the shower when I found a lump in my testicles," he says.

"Ever since my mum died of cancer I've checked myself regularly. I freaked out and called my doctor."

The lump was harmless, and Ronan's been happy to talk about it in the first issue of Your Life! magazine.

He says: "What's a bit of embarrassment when your health's at stake? I hope I can persuade other men to check themselves regularly."

Your Life is available free from many hospitals and health care centres.

TESTICULAR CANCER - DIY CHECK

It's the most common cancer among men aged between 20-35, though it can develop in boys as young as 15.

Check yourself regularly in the bath or shower.

Look for:

• A hard lump on the front or side

• Swelling or enlargement

• Increase in firmness of a testicle

• Pain or discomfort

• Unusual differences between testicles

• Dull ache in the lower stomach, groin or scrotum

• Report any changes to a doctor without delay.
  
  For information: Everyman 0800 731 9468; www.icr.ac.uk/everyman.

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News-Medical.net

Louise Redknapp and Ronan Keating on cancer and how it affected them

Posted By: News-Medical in Miscellaneous News

Published: Tuesday, 1-Jun-2004

Singer Louise Redknapp talks exclusively to the NHS about her fears that a fertility-threatening disease could threaten her plans for a family in a consumer-style magazine published today. Louise was diagnosed with endometriosis, a disease in which small pieces of the womb lining grow outside the womb, causing chronic pain and, in many cases, depression and fertility problems.

Luckily, Louise's condition was diagnosed at an early stage and she responded well to treatment. She is now pregnant with her first child.

In the same magazine, Ronan Keating warns that men should regularly get checked for possible signs of testicular cancer. The singer had a health scare last year when he found a lump in his testicles while on holiday.  Their stories are featured in Your Life magazine, produced by the NHS and Dr Foster, the independent healthcare information provider. As well as celebrity interviews, the magazine features top tips on how to live a healthier lifestyle this summer and eight pages of specially tailored information about local NHS services. It will be available, free of charge, through a range of local organisations including high street retailers, newsagents, hairdressers, and nail salons. The magazine follows growing concern that many young women and their families simply ignore or throw away traditional NHS leaflets.

Gita Mendis, of Dr Foster and editor of Your Life! said: "Because we all love reading about celebrities, we've used both celebrity stories and real people's stories in Your Life! to inspire our readers and help them think carefully about their lifestyles and understand the negative impact things like drinking, smoking, and diet have on their health.

We have worked closely with local Primary Care Trusts to promote existing local NHS services and initiatives there to support the community, for example, smoking cessation groups, alcohol and drugs services and sexual health clinics.

One thing we are determined not to do is preach, instead by using some great celebrity and real people's stories, we are arming our readers with the information they need to understand how their behaviour can affect their health."

Your Life reader Jackie Carlyon from Norfolk was inspired by the winter edition of the magazine to give up smoking. She said: "I was a smoker on 20 to 25 cigarettes a day, but I gave up in January and I'm still off them! It's down to willpower ? and my 4-year-old daughter Luchia making comments about my smoking, which scared me. It's been hard and there have been temptations, but reading the celebrity stories in the winter issue really helped me as I realised you've got to live for your children as well as for yourself."

Carrie Grant, Fame Academy's vocal coach, said: "Your Life! is a great magazine - it really does encourage and educate women to look after their health. There's so much that women can do to change the way they feel It's also good the way the magazine draws attention to the services that the NHS provide."

http://www.gnn.gov.uk

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Six Years after Mam died, she still tells me off

Evening Standard - Febuary 10th 2004

When Ronan Keating lost his beloved mother to breast cancer, he decided that a charity to save others should be her legacy

The day I lost my mother to breast cancer was the day I lost my anchor and my best friend. When you are as close to your mother as I was, I don’t think it’s something you ever really deal with or accept. What compounded my grief - and inspired my family and me to set up the Marie Keating Foundation - was discovering that when Mam found the lump in her breast she was so scared she wouldn’t go to the doctor.  She left it far too long and ultimately, when she was diagnosed, it turned out to be too late to save her. 

Her legacy is a charity which encourages education and early detection of all kinds of cancer, with an aim to cure as many people as possible. To date, we have raised more than £1million.  I have always been a spiritual person and ever since Mam died on 2 February six years ago, I have felt that she is looking after me. I hear her talking, putting me in my place just as she used to. ‘Who do you think you are?’ was one of her favourite ways of bringing me down to earth both as a child and when Boyzone became big. I don’t see her, but she’s always there, a presence in my head and my heart. This spiritual link started the night before she died. I dreamt that she was lying in bed dressed in gold, with my sister Linda and myself on either side of her. She looked at us and said ‘It’s okay, I’m happy now. Please let me go’.  The next minute I woke up, terribly upset, and told Yvonne - who is now my wife - about my dream. Just half an hour later, the phone rang and it was a nurse from the hospital who said that Mam had taken a turn for the worse. I drove like a crazy person to the hospital.  When I got there I ran into the hospital and a nurse told me Mam had passed away 15 minutes before.  Despite my dream, I wasn’t expecting that. I couldn’t take in what the nurse was saying. I can remember watching my hand as it reached for the door handle to Mam’s room and it seemed to take a lifetime before I could turn it. Then I walked into the room and my sister and brother Ciaran were sitting there with Mam. She looked at peace, which was good, because she had been in such pain. But I couldn’t handle it. I wanted somebody to take away my pain and anger. 

My dad, Linda and brothers Ciaran, Gerard and Gary knew we had to do something in my mother’s memory. Because she had been so afraid and unaware that breast cancer did not have to be a death sentence, we decided to find a way of getting women to take that crucial step to early detection.  I was in Boyzone then; I knew that I would be able to attract publicity to get things going and my fans have always been fantastically supportive. Linda took the reins of managing the charity and all of my family are involved.  After talking to oncology specialists, it became clear that an excellent way of making this happen was to raise money for mobile units to stop in places such as supermarket car parks so people could be screened on a walk-in basis.

I live in Dublin with Yvonne and our children Jack, five, and Missy, three. We organised two events in the city that have now become annual; a celebrity golf day which raises more than £100,000 annually and a black-tie ball at the Burlington Hotel which raises the same. Last year, I walked the length of Ireland and raised £160,000. To date, 30,000 people have been screened by our mobile units and I know we are saving lives. I sometimes visit hospitals to meet patients and raise awareness of the charity but I find it terribly emotional: even six years on, the memories still hurt. It helps to keep busy.

I’m promoting my new single, She Believes In Me, and I’m about to make a movie. I don’t think I’ll ever come to terms with Mam’s death; I married Yvonne not long after my mother died and although the sun had been shining, on the day we married it poured down with rain. I said to my brother Gary: ‘It’s as if someone doesn’t want us to get married’. He said: ‘Do you honestly think Mam is going to let it rain on your wedding ceremony?’ Half an hour before we were due to get married, the rain stopped and it turned into a beautiful day. It was as if Mam had given her blessing to our union.  She was fond of Yvonne and knew that apart from her, this was the first blue-eyed blonde girl I had ever met in my life who really meant something to me. She was also the first girl I slept with: I believed in being a virgin until marriage. I take my religion seriously.  My mother made me believe anything was possible - even being a singing star. There are no words to describe her. She was just the most beautiful, incredible woman ever, and although those who loved her can never forget her, the Marie Keating Foundation will make sure she lives on in the lives of others who never knew her.

If you would like to make a donation, visit www.mariekeating.com

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Ronan's call for research support - 5th December 2003

Dear Editor,

I am writing to ask PA readers to support Cancer Research UK's Children's Cancer Month during December.

Now in its fourth year, the month is backed by the UK Children's Cancer Study Group (UKCCSG) and by the National Alliance of Childhood Cancer Parent Organisations (NACCPO).

Every year, about 1,450 children from birth 14 are diagnosed with the disease. That is one in every 600, but as the country's biggest supporter of research into children's cancers, Cancer Research UK, is dedicated to finding new treatments and improving care.

Thanks to the work of scientists like those supported by Cancer Research UK, more than seven out of ten children with cancer are today successfully treated and over 80% of children survive leukaemia, the most common childhood cancer.

There's been so much progress and with your help Cancer Research UK can continue to make great strides there's so much more to be done.

Christmas is traditionally a time for giving and that's why Cancer Research UK has launched its Little Star Appeal.

Almost every family in the country will have been touched by cancer at some point in their lives, including my own, which is why I am backing the appeal and am asking you to do the same.

Cancer Research UK has Little Star badges available for sale for a suggested donation of just 1.

So, if you'd like to order Little Star badges to sell at your Christmas school event or in your place of work simply pick up the phone and call the Little Star Hotline on 08701 60 20 40 today to order your box or pledge a donation.

Together we can save even more young lives. Happy Christmas.

Ronan Keating,

on behalf of Cancer Research

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Be breast aware

The Marie Keating Foundation Mobile Cancer Information & Awareness Unit will visit Ballina (Car Park beside Tesco) on Friday, 19th December, from 10.30am – 4.00pm.  The Marie Keating Foundation has been established primarily to provide  Breast Cancer Information and Awareness free of charge to the general public throughout Ireland.  Our Mobile Units travel countrywide staffed by a registered nurse.  Please note this is not a breast screening service.  Breast cancer is a serious condition and is the most common killing cancer in women.  In Ireland approximately 1,700 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and some 650 die from the disease every year.  The earlier a cancer is diagnosed and treated, the greater the chance of a cure. Our ambition is to enlighten, not to frighten. The Foundation has had great success to date with over 22,395 people visiting our nurses on the Units.  Further information can be obtained from The Marie Keating Foundation website at www.mariekeating.com.  Please note that the unit carries information on other cancers, including Prostate and Testicular Cancer, therefore all are welcome.

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Sunday Irish Independent: 9th November 2003

Charity event attracts a stellar crowd

BARRY EGAN

THE third annual Marie Keating Foundation Pink Ribbon Ball last night in the Burlington Hotel was a genuinely emotional night - not just for Ronan, but for his family as well.

"Its been a fantastic evening and I'm very proud of all the good work my family have done for the charity," said Gerry Keating, Marie's husband.

Pat Kenny hosted the evening, Girls Aloud provided the entertainment and Samantha Mumba, Clodagh Kean, Margaret Nelson, Kerry Katona, Yvonne Connolly Keating, Dr Robin O'Reilly and Siobhan Murray provided the glamour. Louis Walsh
and Westlife turned up to show their support.

Ronan described the Keating family by saying they were "a family like any other family in Ireland that has been touched by grief. And as a family we've all pulled together and made this happen."

"I'm overwhelmed by the support and generosity of the people tonight", said the ever-gorgeous Yvonne Connolly Keating.

Bertie Ahern sent a heartfelt letter of support for the wonderful work that the Marie Keating Foundation does.

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Pop star hunks biggest fear

From the People Newspaper - November 2nd 2003

Singer Ronan Keating has revealed the terror he felt after suffering a cancer scare on holiday.  The former Boyzone star feared he had testicular cancer after finding a lump while taking a shower.  Ronan, whose mum Marie, 54, died of breast cancer five years ago, made the shock discovery while he was in South Africa.  "I was in a panic. I called my doctor back home in Dublin," he said. "He was very calm and reassuring but even so I couldn't wait to get back home and to be properly examined."  Ronan, 26, said in an interview that the check-up showed it was a benign type of coil that wraps around the testicle.  "It was embarrassing but apparently it happens to quite a lot of men in their 20s," he said.

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