Loretto Farrell was diagnosed with cancer on 24th of December 1998 in St. Luke's Cancer Hospital, Dublin.

Loretto was operated on Dec 28th that year and received chemo and radiotherapy in St. Luke's Hospital in 1999. She had nine months of treatment. Christmas of that year Sam and Hugh (Loretto's daughter and son) bought Eugene their dad a CD with the song “Out on the Highway (Born to be Wild)” which spawned the idea to give some support back to St. Luke's through his biking buddies as Eugene always has been a supreme bike enthusiast.

The ideas were hashed and thrashed and the MIDLAND MOTOR CYCLE CLUB was born to solely raise funds on behalf of St Luke's Cancer Hospital, Dublin, by a great crew of motorcycle enthusiasts from Moate and Athlone. The first St. Luke's motorcycle “fun run” was organised for the last weekend in June 2000 and it has since become the largest motorcycle event in Ireland.It has representation and participation from 90% of the other clubs countrywide. The “fun run” is now a fantastic annual event.

In November 2004 Loretto was recognised for her Trojan work by the president Ms. Mary Mc Aleese and the Taoiseach Mr. Bertie Ahern by honouring her in the spirit of Ireland Awards.

Loretto had five years in remission but sadly received bad news in February 2005 the cancer had returned and again St. Luke’s came to the rescue.  Loretto has been through her surgery and underwent further treatment. 

The struggle goes on, Loretto has her shoulder to the wheel and is working hard on this years run. 
SHE IS AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL

Sadly in 2006 we were all taken by shock of the loss of our good Friend Justin Golden who was involved in an fatal accident. All our thoughts and prayers are with Justin and his Family in this sad time.
 This years run is for you!

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE