The word cancer strikes fear into people when they hear it, let alone when they face it either themselves or experiencing a loved one fight the long battle.

Last year my wife, Orla, was faced with having to battle this terrible disease. Unfortunately after a long, 8 month battle, Orla lost her fight to Lymphoma in St. Vincent's ward of the Mater hospital.

The staff of the St Vincent's ward made sure that from beginning to end, Orla was catered for to the highest capacity. No task was to big.

I am taking part in this years Hell & Back in Kilmuddery Co Wicklow to raise vital funds for the Mater Foundation, in particular the St Vincent's ward. 

There can be no number to high in terms of funding that can be raised for wards like St Vincent's, the Mater. It will ensure that people of illness can be cared for in the future to the high standard that Orla was cared for last year.

So any amount big or small is much appreciated towards my goal to help fund a great cause. Thank You

Mark.