Late Athlone woman to be remembered at local Garda golf classic fundraiser
There is a poignant local element to the 'Play in Pink' golf classic being hosted in Athlone this week by one of the first garda societies in Ireland, as it is in memory of a late Athlone garda.
Longford Westmeath Golf Society was formed in 1975, and this year members have come together to hold a classic in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland, which is at Athlone Golf Club on Tuesday, June 25.
The committee decided to host the event in memory of Staci Daly (née Wykes), who passed away on September 7 last, at her home in Glenwood, Baylin.
A native of Athlone, Staci, who was just 31 at the time of her death, spent her entire garda career in the Ashbourne Garda District.
Staci joined An Garda Síochána in 2016 and was stationed in Ashbourne, where she and Cathal met.
She was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in April 2022 and began treatment.
During her treatment Staci and Cathal married in November of that year and lived in Baylin, Athlone.
In April 2023, after the end of the initial treatment, there was hope of a positive outcome; however in May, the cancer returned and ultimately claimed Staci’s life on September 7, 2023, when she was just 31 years old.
Longford Westmeath Golf Society member Sgt Brian Stones said: "After Staci’s tragic passing, we held initial discussions and we have been amazed at the numbers of people that have been, and are currently being, affected by this terrible disease.
"We decided to do what we could in memory of Staci, and all those who have been affected by breast cancer. Our hope with this event is not only to gather funds for Breast Cancer Ireland, but to celebrate the all too short life of Staci Daly, and hopefully make people aware of the ongoing battle against a disease that affects more than 3,400 women in Ireland each year, but also approximately 30 men yearly.
"We have registered our event with Breast Cancer Ireland and are fully supported by them and hope that the day will be a fitting tribute to Staci’s short life but also a step forward for all in the battle against cancer.
"We are confident that our event will be well attended and will be advertised within the garda community and wider communities throughout Ireland.
"We are seeking sponsorship or donations for our event and any contribution you may be able to pass on would be greatly appreciated. All proceeds generated from this event will go to Breast Cancer Ireland,” Sgt Stones explained.