Broadcaster, Ian Dempsey will act as MC for this year’s Dream Ball and National Children of Courage Awards, which will take place on Saturday, November 25, in the South Court Hotel.

Organised by the Share a Dream Foundation, founded in Limerick, the event will also see eight acutely ill children selected from nominations received from all over Ireland who have shown unbelievable courage and determination in getting as much out of life as possible, despite their illness or disability.

There will be special awards for these very brave children and their parents who will be guests of honour at the event. As well as receiving their awards, the children will also have their fondest wish come true on the night.

Last year, it was held in Galway and was supported by 650 people.

"In Ireland there are hundreds of very sick children fighting everyday of their lives just trying to hang on. Very often deprived of even the simplest of pleasures, they spend weeks, months and years in and out of hospitals, just trying to hang onto life.

For the parents it is a very lonely, frightening and heartbreaking place to be,” said a spokesperson for the Share a Dream Foundation, Limerick.

"We are trying to bring a little magic and sunshine into the lives of these children and their families all over Ireland by making their fondest dream come true and give them a little hope for a better tomorrow.

"Our Dream Ball promises to be a magical night to remember with fantastic food, wonderful surprises throughout the evening, good company, great entertainment and the absolute magic of knowing you are part of actually making dreams come true for eight very special children”.