Irish Family Raises €25,000 for Heart Research in Memory of Daughter

An Irish family has raised €25,000 for The Mercy Hospital Foundation to support heart research and genetic testing in Cork, following the death of their daughter, Zara Harding Horan. The Harding-Horan family, from Roscrea in County Tipperary, along with their local community, raised the funds through five fundraising events last year to honor the fifth anniversary of the 19-year-old’s passing.

Fundraising Efforts

The fundraising events included a charity walk at Cloughjordan National School, a guided tour of Monastic Lorrha led by historian James Heenan, a coffee morning at the Derg Inn, a bucket collection in Nenagh, and a sponsored walk from University Limerick to Thomond Park. Cloughjordan National School participated in a walk to support the Zara Harding Horan Foundation on October 23, 2025.

Zara Harding-Horan and Loeys-Dietz Syndrome

Zara Harding-Horan died in 2020 as a result of Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), a rare genetic condition that affects connective tissue, potentially causing aortic aneurysms. The Mercy Hospital Foundation highlighted Zara’s story on Facebook, noting her tragic passing at the age of 19.

Supporting Rugby and Genetic Testing

Zara was a first-year bachelor of arts student in performing arts at the University of Limerick and had a passion for rugby. To honor her love of the sport, €5,000 was donated to support the Zara Horan Trophy, a regional U18.5 competition aimed at fostering the growth of women’s rugby development pathways. Funds raised will also go towards gene testing at Cork University Hospital, which will help fund genetic testing for other families.

Family and Foundation Statements

Alison Harding, Zara’s mother, described her daughter as “a funny, outgoing, and happy young woman who was taken way too young.” She added, “She fitted so much into her short time here, living life to the full, giving to others, raising money for charity, and always putting others first.” Ms. Harding emphasized that Zara’s spirit lives on through the joy she gave, the lives she touched, and the future she helps shape through these fundraising efforts.

Rachel Stevenson, CEO of the Mercy Foundation, stated that “every donation and act of fundraising plays a vital role in supporting patients and their families at Mercy University Hospital.” She added, “The generosity shown in Zara’s memory helps fund crucial research, essential testing, and improved care, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives when they need it most.”