Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Hi, everyone my name is Shaun Dillon and I am a member of the Termoneeny Running Club based in Lavey, Co. Derry. Once again, I have set another goal to run 26.2 miles of the London Marathon on Sunday the 23rd of April 2017. This will be my 10th marathon and it will have a bigger focus in mind.

This time round, I am taking part in this event in memory of my cousin Sean McAllister. I wish to raise awareness and much needed funds for the 'Friends of the Cancer Centre' charity based in Belfast. Sadly, Sean tragically passed away on Sunday 15th January 2017 after a gruelling and courageous 8 month battle with a rare and aggressive esophageal cancer. Sean was an incredible, fun loving, easygoing character whose energy, sense of humour and zest for life is a complete inspiration to those lucky enough to have known him. He leaves his wife and five children behind and was no doubt the heart of his family home. He was one of life's truest gentlemen and his family was at the centre of everything he done. Sean maintained positive and determined during the darkest of days. Throughout his life, he never failed to smile or make others laugh and this was still the case as he fought such an aggressive illness. He always had an infectious laugh and heartwarming personality and never allowed his diagnosis or the effects of chemotherapy to dim his fighting, witty spirit. He is a much loved husband, father, son, brother, cousin, friend and inspiration who will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. 

I have chosen the 'Friends of the Cancer Centre' charity so that other patients and their families who fall victim to this horrendous illness will receive the support they require. The charity provide help through cancer research, specialist clinical care, new equipment and family comfort. The treatment that Sean and his family received from the staff at the Cancer Centre ensured that they received the utmost care they needed during the harrowing times. 

While training for this marathon, I feel it is so much more worthwhile to run for a charity as it makes the physical, emotional and mental journey easier. I also know that Sean will be very much at the forefront of my mind during the training stages as well as when I reach the finish line. 

Please feel free to sponsor me for the upcoming event either on this Justgiving page or through the sponsor sheets that have been distributed to family, friends and the local area. If you feel you could make a donation- however small- we will be extremely grateful!