Downpatrick Woman climbs three mountains to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Unit
A Downpatrick woman has scaled the heights to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer
Monica Rogan from Downpatrick has completed the National Peak Challenge 2022 and raised an incredible £1000 for the Macmillan Cancer Unit in the Ulster Hospital.
Monica’s mother, Maureen Rogan was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2021 having attended a routine breast screening. Maureen is now in recovery and received cancer treatment in the Macmillan Cancer Unit.
Maureen worked as a Nursing Auxiliary for the Belfast Trust and was influenced in to go into the caring profession after she cared for her parents who had both battled cancer.
Social Worker, Monica wanted to show her appreciation for the care that her mum, Maureen had received and felt it was appropriate to raise funds as a way of giving something back to the Unit.
She successfully completed the National Peak Challenge on 10th June 2022 after climbing three of the highest peaks of the UK, which were Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell in England and Snowden in Wales, walking a total of 23 miles and a total ascent of just over 10,000ft!
Monica completed the challenge in just under 25 hours which is a fantastic accomplishment, having battled through poor weather conditions and poor visibility.
The challenge was physically and mentally challenging in parts however the fundraiser kept Monica pushing on.
Speaking of her reason behind the fundraiser, Monica explained: “The delivery of care that was provided by the team in the Unit was excellent, from finding out the news mum had cancer, throughout her journey all the way to recovery, I will be eternally thankful to the nursing team for all of their kindness and compassion.
“Mum and I are very grateful and thankful to the professionals in the South Eastern Trust that were involved in her care throughout her journey with breast cancer.
“The nurses in the Macmillan Unit were always very friendly and helpful and the fundraising was a small token of appreciation.
“I wanted to challenge myself and thought it would also be a great opportunity to also do a fundraiser for mum, as I love hiking and use it as a form of self-care. Hiking has definitely helped me overcome many challenges that I have faced, and taught me a few life lessons along the way!”
Acting Ward Sister, Macmillan Unit, Angela Berry expressed her gratitude and said: “We are very appreciative for the effort Monica has gone to, in raising funds on behalf of her mother for the Macmillan Unit.
“Monica put herself through a tough physical challenge completing the National Peak Challenge but really enjoyed it.
“The monies raised will go towards the vital services we provide to other patients and their families who are experiencing a similar journey as Maureen.
