A drum head signed which was signed by legendary musician, Phil Collins, sold for more than €3,000 at a recent auction in Galway in aid of Sunflower Children's Hospice.
The drum head, raised €3,030 as part of The Galway Drum Show, Ireland's largest, drumming dedicated event, uniting music fans, educators and international artists for live performances by famous drummers, demonstrations and exhibitions.
This auction was held in honour of the late young drummer, Adam Nagajek, who passed away in 2025 aged 17, having been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma when he was nine years old. Despite never previously taken drumming lessons, Adam achieved a top three national placing after joining The Galway Drum Show as 16 years of age.
Even during the final months of his life, Adam continued to create and perform music.
According to the Irish Independent, Adam's mother, Ola Nagajek said: “I’m delighted that we were able to support the Sunflower Children’s Hospice through the Galway Drum Show’s silent auction".
She continued: “Adam was in adult hospitals once he turned 16 and had limited access to paediatric services. While we did receive paediatric palliative care in his final weeks, much of his care took place within adult services despite him being only 16 and 17 years old".
“I really wanted to help other children and young adults like Adam, so they are not left behind. The Sunflower Children’s Hospice will provide hugely important service for families across the West of Ireland".
Ola also thanked the Galway Drum Show for their "incredible support".
It was also confirmed that all funds raised from this event would go towards the construction of the eight bed Sunflower Children's Hospice in Mayo, the first children's hospice of the Western Seaboard in Ireland. Construction is expected to take place later this year.
This hospice will provide special palliative care for children suffering with life-limiting illnesses, as well as therapeutic facilities like hydrotherapy, sensory rooms and play therapy. They will also provide purpose built family accommodation.
They will help to support children and families from the western seaboard, including compassionate and specialist care closer to home.
In a statement according to the Irish Independent, CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, Martina Jennings said: “I would sincerely like to thank Ola and the Galway Drum Show for choosing to support the Sunflower Children’s Hospice".
“Families like Adam’s highlight why this service is so urgently needed in the West of Ireland. Every contribution brings us closer to creating a dedicated space where children, young adults and their families can receive the specialist care and support they deserve".
Elsewhere, John Tierney of the Galway Drum Show added: “We are delighted to support such a fantastic charity, and we’ll continue to do so in the future.
“The drum community will always support each other".
