During the summer, my fiancé and I made a rather bold decision to sign up for the 2026 Belfast City Marathon to raise funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre.

Taking on such a challenge was always going to need a big reason “why.” For us, that reason was to give back to the incredible team at The Cancer Centre Belfast City Hospital, who have provided my Uncle Charlie with so much comfort and support since his cancer diagnosis over three years ago.

When we signed up, I hoped more than anything that Uncle Charlie would be there to see us cross the finish line. Sadly, on Sunday 19th October, our reason “why” became even bigger, as my uncle lost his brave fight with cancer.

Charlie leaves an irreplaceable hole in our family’s lives. He was always our biggest supporter and a constant positive influence on me since I was born. I know he’ll be with us every step of the way.

We’re running in his memory, raising vital funds to help other families going through the same heartbreaking journey. The work the nurses and staff do is truly incredible, and I’d like to give special thanks to everyone in Ward 2A & 2B of the Cancer Centre Belfast City Hospital, for their care and compassion.

Any donation, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated. I’ve no doubt that when the marathon training & race day get tough, knowing what these donations mean will be the thing that keeps me going.

If anyone needs me I’ll be pounding the pavements.

Thank you so much for your support.