Collection underway for Zak's Toy Run

Toys are now being collected ahead of the fourth annual Zak's Toy Run, held each year in memory of a little boy called Zak Moran from Navan, who passed away on 2nd May 2022 at the age of 11 after a brave battle with cancer.

The event is organised each year by Zak's friends and family, in conjunction with various Motorcycle Clubs and local community groups, including local schools and businesses and this year takes place on 6th December.

The aim of the Toy run is to collect as many new toys as possible. "Each year the support we receive is unbelievable, and grows year on year, going above and beyond what we had hoped for," said Zak's dad Dave.

"Last year over 3,000 gifts were donated to Zak's Toy Run. The huge amount of gifts donated was a measure of the incredible kindness of people and also a lovely reminder of how much Zak is loved, missed and remembered by everyone."

The gifts donated will be delivered on Sunday 6th December to sick children in Temple Street Children's Hospital and The Children's Ward at Our of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. The toys are handed out over the Christmas period and throughout the year.

"We know from Zak's experience in hospital that receiving a gift is a welcome distraction and gives a sick child a little lift when they are going through a tough time," said Dave.

The event also means so much to Zak's family by helping keep Zak's memory alive by spreading a little bit of magic in his name.

"This year we are also remembering a very dear friend Cormac Hughes who sadly passed away since last year's Toy Run, Cormac was a very important part of each years Toy Run and he will be very sadly missed and in our thoughts this year," said Dave.

Several schools, businesses and clubs have organised collections and Dave is very grateful for this support.

For more information about collection points or where to donate a toy, see the Facebook page 'Zak's Toy Run 2026'.

Zak's Toy Run 2026 will again start from Navan Retail Park, meeting at 10am on Sunday, 6th December, with stands up at 11.30 to deliver the toys to the two hospitals.