A Gweedore-based adventurer is preparing to honour his beloved brother with a special climb up Errigal this November in support of Pieta.
Colin Fleming lost his brother, Blain, when he died by suicide in July.
Blain, aged 38, from Ballymoney in Co. Antrim, was a kind and gentle person who loved to laugh and was always there for others.
He had a special fondness for Donegal, which has been Colin’s home for the past 20 years. Colin runs Trek and Paddle Donegal and volunteers with the Bunbeg Coast Guard.
The loss of his brother has inspired Colin to take on a significant journey. His winter hike up Errigal mountain on 15th of November aims to bring people together, shine a light in the darkness, and open conversations about mental health.
“The pain of losing a loved one never truly departs but instead leaves an indelible mark on our hearts,” said Colin.
Colin says the climb is “a fitting tribute to Blain, symbolising the struggle many face internally every single day, sometimes unseen.”
All funds raised will go directly to Pieta. A bucket collection in the Gweedore area last Sunday has already helped to kick-start awareness and fundraising for the cause.
“I wanted to do something for Blain, because he loved Donegal as much as I do,” Colin tells Donegal Daily.
Blain, who lived with his parents in Ballymoney, was well known and much loved locally. He worked at Tesco and is remembered as a warm, family-oriented man who brought joy to those around him.
“Blain was full of life. He was partially deaf, but it never stopped him from enjoying himself or loving heavy metal music. We were very close,” Colin said.
Tragically, this is the second time suicide has touched the Fleming family. Blain was predeceased by his sister, Patricia, who took her own life 15 years ago, at the age of 36.
“This climb is to raise awareness and to keep Blain and my sister Patricia in people’s prayers,” Colin said.
The Errigal mountain climb for Pieta will take place on 15th November 2025, starting at 11am.
Everyone is welcome to take part. Those wishing to join are asked to send a private message in advance to 00353 87 090 3163 so that Colin can plan for numbers and organise support for the group.
To donate to the fundraiser, please visit: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/colinfleming
Connecting for Life
Memorial Errigal climb to shine a light on unseen mental health struggles was last modified: October 27th, 2025 by Rachel McLaughlin