CHEERS to all concerned as Jim Bolger and Davy Russell have confirmed the total raised by their five year annual fundraising hurling match, Hurling for Cancer Research, has now reached €542,000 with this year’s figure coming in at €138,000 for the Irish Cancer Society’s vital cancer research programme.

This has enabled Irish research breakthroughs such as a recent discovery made by BREAST-PREDICT, an Irish Cancer Society Collaborative Cancer Research Centre.

Researchers found that a new drug can prevent the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells. If found to be successful in clinical trials, the drug (APR-246) has the potential to save lives of patients with a form of breast cancer which is currently difficult to treat.

Jim Bolger said: “The number of people with cancer in Ireland is rising annually and more research is vital to tackle this growing epidemic. Davy and I, and all those involved in Hurling for Cancer Research, are proud to play a part in funding the Irish Cancer Society’s work in this field.”

The sixth annual Hurling for Cancer Research match will take place in St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge on August 15th 2017, and will once again see top GAA, racing and sporting stars take to the pitch.

John McCormack, CEO of the Irish Cancer Society commented: “Our research investments are 100% funded by the public so the money raised through the event is extremely important for all those affected by cancer. Thank you to Jim Bolger and Davy Russell and all those who supported the event this year, your contribution is making a real difference to cancer patients in Ireland. We look forward to another great night on the pitch next August.”

www.cancer.ieresearch.