JustGiving’s homepage
Start Fundraising

Your friends are fundraising. Don't miss out, opt in.

MONTFORT MISSIONARIES BOSTON MARATHON RUN for MALAWI

Carmel O'Donovan is raising money for Montfort Missionaries
Give Now

BOSTON MARATHON

Malawi is a landlocked country in south-east Africa that was formerly known as Nyasaland. Lake Malawi takes up a third of the small country, and separates it from Tanzania and Mozambique. It was the first country in Africa to be successfully established as a field of missionary activity. The Montfort Missionaries first went to Malawi in 1901, and began missionary work in the south of the country, and the Daughters of Wisdom arrived in 1904. Malawi’s economy is heavily based on agriculture with a largely rural population. The recent rainfall season has been the driest in 35 years, resulting in enormous crop failures and widespread famine across the country. Emergency maize supplies are being imported into the country but many people are still starving. Montfort Missionary priest Fr. Charlie Beirne has recently moved from Uganda to Sitima, Malawi and shared his insights with us: "Since I arrived in Sitima about ten days ago, many children are failing to attend school due to hunger and those who do attend are very hungry. However, many are not attending school, because they are so sick with lack of food and sustenance. There is a nearby school, run by Montfort Sisters called Luntha Wisdom Secondary School. The nuns have told me that many of the children that do come to school daily eat only one, small meal a day at home because of the famine and they are consequently unable to study well".

Story

Thanks for taking the time to visit my Just Giving page.

🌟 Running the Boston Marathon for a Cause Close to My Heart

Supporting the Montfort Missionaries in Malawi (UK Charity No. 241963).

FUNDRAISING TO BUILD A NEW NURSERY SCHOOL.

On Monday 20th April, I’ll be standing at the start line of the Boston Marathon—something I still find hard to believe. It will be my 9th marathon and the final chapter in completing all six World Marathon Majors, a journey that has stretched across 11 years, countless early mornings, tired legs, and unforgettable memories.

But this race is different.

This one carries a deeper meaning.

I’m running for the Montfort Missionaries in Malawi, supporting the extraordinary work of my brother, Fr Charles Beirne, whose dedication to serving vulnerable communities continues to inspire me every single day. His mission is one of compassion, dignity, and hope—values that remind me why every mile is worth it.

The new nursery school when built is to be named the St. Teresa and Rita Nursery. Located in Njereze at the outstation in Koche Parish. This is from where my brother Fr Charlie Beirne operates in Malawi. This is a much needed addition to the facilities available in the area.

💛 A Journey Powered by Love and Support

This achievement has never been mine alone. I owe so much to my incredible family, who have stood beside me through every training cycle, every setback, and every finish line.

To my husband, Peter, whose unwavering encouragement has carried me through the toughest miles.

To my daughter, Olivia, who has trained for months and run most of these marathons with me—sharing not just the miles, but the heart of this journey.

Their belief in me has been my fuel.

🙏 Thank You for Every Cheer, Prayer, and Donation

To everyone who has supported me over the years—through your generosity, your kind words, your prayers, and your cheers from near and far—thank you. You’ve been part of every step.

🌍 Why Your Donation Matters

By supporting my Boston Marathon run, you’re not just helping me cross a finish line. You’re helping the Montfort Missionaries bring education, care, and hope to communities in Malawi who need it most. Your contribution—no matter the size—creates real, lasting change.

If you feel moved to support this mission, I would be deeply grateful.

With heartfelt thanks,

Carmel O’Donovan

WHY DONATE THROUGH JUSTGIVING

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Donation summary

Total
£0.00
Online
£0.00
Offline
£0.00

Charities pay a small fee for our service. Learn more about fees