Hi folks, 

As you all know I have decided to run the Derry Marathon for a very good cause. I am running for Macmillan Cancer Support, a Charity that provides physical, emotional and financial support to help those diagnosed with cancer to live life as fully as they can! I have personal experience of their fantastic support on a local level. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in December 2017. My life was instantly turned upside down that month as I struggled to come to terms with an illness I never expected to deal with personally! I have been running for five years and felt the Marathon was my best opportunity to acknowledge and thank all those who played a part in my journey. I cannot thank each of you enough for your support, laughter and friendship through those trying times. With that in mind, Macmillan in particular supported me and my family throughout my cancer journey, helping me to understand what I was dealing with and showing me how to look after myself beyond treatment. I particularly enjoyed my post treatment experience and my return to fitness through the MOVE MORE PROGRAMME where I received one to one support with Sean Hargan, local coordinator. He encouraged me to participate in one to one sessions namely wall climbing, gym workouts, running and mentoring me through my recovery. I am delighted to say I am now in remission and cannot thank the programme enough for their dedication, encouragement and support to this day.