Brave Zak’s legacy to see six charities benefit from €90k in raised funds
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Zak's Brothers and Sister present a cheque from the proceeds of the Zak Rock's Fund to Aoibheann's Pink Tie COE Mick RochfordPictured from left are Danny, Bevin and Matthew Moran with Mick Rochford of Aoibheann's Pink Tie.Image 2 of 3
Zak, pictured with his family on his sister Bevin’s communion day. Pictured from left are (back row), Matthew, Caitriona and Dave with Aoibheann and Zak in the middle row and Danny in front.Image 3 of 3
Zak with his family on older brother Matthew’s confirmation day. Parents Dave and Caitrioa with Bevin, Danny, Zak and Matthew.The heartbroken family of 11-year-old Zak Moran from Navan who lost his brave battle against cancer last year have expressed their heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated and supported them during Zak's illness saying they can never thank people enough.
The incredible generosity of the public meant there were funds of over €90,000 left after Zak passed away and the Moran family has decided to divide it equally between six charities that helped them greatly during Zak's illness, with each receiving just over €15,000.
Having experienced first hand the difference these charities make, Zak's parents, Dave and Caitriona wanted to donate the proceeds of Zak Rocks Fund to them, but also wish to continue Zak's legacy by fundraising in his memory with the first event- a toy run- to take place on 2nd December.
"Zak Rocks Fund was set up by our family and friends when we had just received the news of Zak's diagnosis. We were devastated to learn that there was no cure for his cancer and heartbroken at the thought of what lay ahead. However, the outpouring of love and support we received gave us the strength to keep going, and most importantly Zak knew how much everyone cared about him and the huge effort that people were making on his behalf," said Zak's dad, Dave.
"The funds donated made such a difference to Zak during his illness. They enabled us to adapt our home to meet Zak's needs, essentially allowing him to be discharged from hospital and to be taken care of by us at home where he wanted to be. They allowed us to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle to transport Zak comfortably to and from his hospital appointments and on days when he was feeling well enough, we could get away and enjoy time together as a family.
"They also gave us the reassurance and security that any treatments or clinical trials that were available abroad, that would not be funded by the HSE, could be availed of because the funds were available to us.
"We will never be able to thank you all enough for your time, effort, hard work and generosity in terms of fundraising and donations and for the love, kindness and support you have shown us. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts".
Dave explained that there were a number of charities who also helped Zak during his illness and they have chosen the Bumbleance, Oscars Kids Club, Aoibheann's Pink Tie, Blood Bikes, The Gavin Glynn Foundation, and The Irish Cancer Society – Night Nursing Service as the recipients of the remainder of the Zak Rocks fund of €90,388 with the money to be divided equally between them.
"From going through it, we know the places that need money and the places that provide a service that you never even new existed until you need them. A lot don't get government funding and are depending on fundraising and donations," said Dave.
They have also decided to rename the fund as "Zak Rocks on" and will continue to fundraise for childhood cancer charities in Zak's memory.
"We miss Zak so much every day and the void that is left can never be filled. He was such a special boy who was so many things - strong, brave, witty, intelligent, easy-going, sporty, creative but above all he was kind and selfless. Zak has inspired us to do something that we feel he would be proud of and honoured to be part of. For every ending there is a new beginning and with this in mind, we have decided to change the Zak Rocks Fund to "Zak Rocks On".
Dave told how their mission now is to help other children who are going through their own battle with cancer by organising fun events and fundraisers in Zak's memory to support charities who help children with cancer. The first event will be a Toy Run to Temple Street and Crumlin Children's Hospitals on the 2nd December. There will be collection points in St Paul's NS and St Oliver's NS and Navan O'Mahony's with dates to be confirmed nearer the time. Toys collected will be brought up to Temple Street and Crumlin Hospitals in vans that will be in convoy with hundreds of motorcycles and other supporters in their cars.
"It can make such a difference to a child to receive a toy in hospital when they are going through a tough time," said Dave. Not just at Christmas but other times when they are going through treatment or having a procedure, it can really cheer them up."