‘Human dynamo’ behind Wexford Dip in the Nip honoured for raising almost €300k for cancer charity

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

Described as a “human dynamo” by those in attendance, Mayglass’s Eileen Rowe has received a civic award from the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD) for her charity work with the Hope Cancer Support Centre (HCSC). The founder and organiser of the annual Wexford Dip in the Nip, Eileen has raised almost €300,000 for the centre since she began running the event.

Presenting the award to Eileen, the cathaoirleach of the RMD, Councillor Jim Codd, reminded all those present that this is the “highest honour” which can be bestowed upon a member of the local community.

"It’s only right and proper that we present this to Eileen,” he said. “Ten years ago she lost a family member to cancer and that was to prove the impetus for her to create the dip in the nip. In those ten years she has raised almost €291,600 for the Hope Centre. Not only has she raised a substantial amount of money for this organisation, she also has raised awareness of a illness which has impacted every family in the county and beyond.”

Flanked by her family and friends, as well as representatives from the Hope Centre and those who have helped run the dip over the years, Eileen said the fundraising element of the event was only part of the story.

“It’s about getting women together, it’s an experience which can’t be described,” she said. “I would always tell people to do it while you can, leave all your fears behind you, it’s the most amazing feeling; it’s like being part of an exclusive club.”

Maria Gore from the Rosslare Community and Sports Centre is a member of that club and she praised the woman at its helm.

“You’re a fantastic ambassador for Wexford women,” she said to Eileen. “I was terrified of doing the dip for many years but found it exhilarating when I did do it, there’s a real joy in stepping out of your comfort zone. This event has brought communities together.”

The level of goodwill and positivity in the room had an impact on Cllr Lisa McDonald who said the event was one of the most affecting she had experienced in her time as a public representative.

“I’ve been involved in civic awards for 20 years and have never seen one with such emotion and pride on behalf of the recipient,” she said. “Eileen provides us all with a great sense of hope and it’s a testament to the work she’s doing that not only has she raised so much money but she’s also touched the hearts and minds of those who have impacted by cancer."

Cllr Frank Staples, who originally suggested Eileen receive the award, summed up the impact she makes on other people.

“I would describe you as a human dynamo, it’s quite incredible what you’ve done,” he said.

The praise continued from Cllr Aoife Rose O’Brien and Michael Jordan from the Hope Centre.

"It’s a true honour to present you with this award,” said Cllr O’Brien, “it’s an amazing achievement to raise so much money and the Hope Centre does incredible work, well done to you all.”

“Eileen is a bit of a pied piper, people tend to follow her when she’s get an idea in her head, she’s such an energetic individual,” added Michael.

As the woman entrusted with capturing the dip in the nip every year, photographer Paula Malone Carty said being part of the event was life-affirming.

“When I hear the screams and yelps of joy I can’t help but begin to tear up, and this has all happened because of Eileen,” she said.

This year, for the second time, the men of Wexford are being asked to take to the waters for charity. Their Bow Tie Nip takes place on July 19 at Rosslare Strand, with the women’s Dip in the Nip on July 20 in the same location.

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