A GORT woman has been honoured for her long-standing commitment to Sunflower Days fundraising in Galway City Hospice.
Rita Molloy received the award from Hospice Sunflower Days Ambassador, Miriam O’Callaghan, at a special ceremony in St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 last week to coincide with the Hospice Sunflower Days 2026 campaign launch.
The Gort woman was honoured along with 12 others from all across the country with the title of Hospice Hero at the event.
Rita was recognised for her long-standing commitment to organising Sunflower Day volunteers in Gort for Galway Hospice every year.
Hospice Sunflower Days collections take place on Friday 12th June and Saturday 13th June 2026 around Galway City & County.
On these days, volunteers sell items including Sunflower pins, pens, trolley tokens and teddies.
Speaking at the event, Mary Nash, CEO of Galway Hospice, commented “We are proud to recognise Rita’s dedication and the difference she has made to Galway Hospice over many years.
Volunteers like Rita are at the heart of our community. We are encouraging people across Galway to join her this June to raise vital funds for the hospice — helping ensure our care is there for patients and families when they need it most.
Every little donation really does make a big difference”.
“I am delighted to get involved once again with Hospice Sunflower Days. This is a very worthy cause and with all funds raised locally staying in the local area, it really offers a great opportunity for people to make a difference for their local hospice or specialist palliative homecare service”, Miriam O’Callaghan added.


