Annual His’n Her’s Charity Lunch Friday 7th October 2022 in The Marker Hotel, Grand Canal Square, Dublin 2.

Louis Walsh brings the X Factor to The Caroline Foundation His ‘n Hers Fundraising Lunch

The Caroline Foundation held its annual luncheon at The Marker Hotel on Friday 7^th October after a two year hiatus. The His ‘n Hers lunch once again raised much needed funds for The Cancer Clinical Research Trust (CCRT) devoted to furthering the development of new treatments for cancer under Professor John Crown. Over 230 people attended the lunch which, as always, was hosted by Broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan.

Among the guests were His Excellency Mr. Davor Vidis, Ambassador of The Republic of Croatia to Ireland and Her Excellency Ms. Larysa Gerasko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland. Those present showed the depth of their support for the plight of the Ukrainian people in the current war by the sustained standing ovation for Ms. Gerasko. The Ukrainian ambassador was deeply touched by the spontaneous and heartfelt expression of solidarity.

Music impresario Louis Walsh was the guest speaker and his audience loved the verve and energy he brought to the event.  Mixing and chatting with attendees, Louis spoke of his admiration and deep, deep respect for the work of The Caroline Foundation and Prof. John Crown’s Cancer Clinical Research Trust.

Prof. John Crown gave a quick update on the progress being made by cancer research in Ireland and he spoke in particular about the work of one of the current holders of The Caroline Foundation Fellowship, Dr. Denis Collins.  In December 2020, Science Foundation Ireland, acknowledged CCRT’s work here in Ireland by the awarding of a special Strategic Partnership Award for the ACORN project led by Prof John Crown (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Denis Collins (Co-Principal Investigator).

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception, sponsored by Fitzers Catering, and a fabulous three-course lunch which included Salmon Pastrami, Teelings Whiskey And Mustard Crème Fraiche, Pickles, Chive Scone starter, followed by a main course of Roast Sirloin Irish Beef, Short Rib Croquette, Carrot And Parsnip, Dauphinoise Potato, Peppercorn Cafe Au Lait and finally for dessert guests enjoyed a Blackberry And Apple Crumble Tart With Vanilla Ice Cream And Sauce Anglaise.  Based on feedback from the guests, the wonderful and much acclaimed chef at The Marker, Chef Gareth Mullins, was definitely at his culinary best.

Auction items included a wonderful VIP experience x 2 people at The Encore Hotel Boston Harbor, bronze statuette of one of Patrick O’Reilly’s world famous bears from a limited issue, Signed New Zealand Test Series 2022 Irish Rugby Jersey – Ireland 2 V All Blacks 1, Signed Leinster and Munster rugby jerseys, framed painting “Into the Unknown” by Liz Levey and Framed “Dublin Bay Wonder” painting by Niall Leavy. There were other much sought after items such as vouchers from Dublin’s best restaurants, Photogenic Photographers or Up to my Eyes, Greystones as well as overnight stays at Ireland’s best hotels including the prestigious Ashford Castle. A golf suite called The Wicklow Package included green fees from Arklow, Delgany, Greystones, Powerscourt and Woodenbridge Golf Courses. It was indeed a dream occasion for the auction aficionado.

Photos courtesy of Jason Clarke

 Painting by artist Niall Leavy – ‘Dublin Bay Wonder’  WxH 65 x 63 cm Frame