I need your help!

I have wanted to give something back for the care and compassion my Dad, Mike O'Mahony received from the Christie up until he passed away on 17th November 2018 at the age of 59.

It's been a while since Dad left, but that doesn't reduce the thoughts of him and certainly the Christie keeps supporting those that are in need of care throughout any stage of cancer.

Mike was diagnosed with throat cancer, those who knew him knew he was a kind bubbly man, who cared and wanted to light up the room with laughter & smiles. Dad was a hard worker and when time came to fight the big C, he took a knock to his armour, however he stood up and worked hard to fight for life, to fight to be there for as long as he could.

His journey with the head and neck team at The Christie and the NHS were tough, there were lots of hard moments, Mike gave as much as he could to fight till the end. He went through so much physical and mental pain, it shows that when we can be determined with the right support, whatever that may be, we can get through adversity, perhaps not always to the full outcome we wish, but we are able to overcome incredible things.

Mike showed true courage and strength.

In honour of my Dad and in addition to try and deal with some of my own challenges, I have decided to try and focus my energy and determination to challenge myself and push my physical and mental limits in a nod to Mike.

I am starting with a trail run which consists of 46 miles and over 2000 metres of ascent from Edale, Derbyshire to Hebden Bridge, North Yorkshire via the Pennine Way in winter conditions. The race is on 10th January 2026 and starts at 12:00, with whatever weather is put upon us at this time!

You can find more information out by looking at the race organisers website https://www.thespinerace.com/race/montane-winter-spine/montane-winter-spine-sprint/

You will also be able to follow my LIVE progress on the day by visiting the tracker and watch my and my fellow competitors LIVE via https://live.opentracking.co.uk/spinesprintsouth26/

as well as youtube updates for the entire race series here The Spine Race

The following (confirmed) challenge is to compete in a summer race of 108 miles with 5451 metres of ascent from Edale, Derbyshire to Hardraw, North Yorkshire. This race is on June 13th 2026 08:00.

These two races are part of a series of the Spine Race, with the full race (winter/summer) being that of the entirety of the Pennine Way - 268 miles. My long term goal is to race the full Spine.

However let's not get away from ourselves just yet, my fundraising has started late, however that doesn't matter, your support now matters.

I have a few challenges of my own to add that extra spice to those that the race presents.

Please donate now to help me raise my goal for The Christie, pre or post race...your generous support is really appreciated.

Photo of Dad and myself in Wales.

With regards,

Martin

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