Newcastle father tackles Mizen to Malin cycle for children with cancer
Mark Rafferty from Newcastle, County Down, is marking his 40th birthday by cycling the length of Ireland in aid of Cancer Fund for Children and Men’s Sheds.
On 20th June, Mark will cover 356 miles, travelling from Mizen Head in Cork to Malin Head in Donegal in a single supported solo effort.
Taking off within the window of civil dawn at 04:34 and reaching his goal during civil twilight at 23:15, Mark is putting his mental and physical endurance to the test to help ensure no child faces cancer alone.
Speaking on his challenge, Mark said: “I’m a husband, father and endurance enthusiast, and I wanted to do something special to mark turning 40, so I decided to set myself this challenge.
“I’m doing this to prove to myself that I can, but also, to support two charities that make a real difference in our communities.
“If you’re able to support my challenge, no matter the amount, it would mean a great deal to me, and even more to the people these charities help every day. Thank you so much for your kindness and encouragement.”
Cancer Fund for Children provides emotional, social and therapeutic support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer, at home, in hospital and at the charity’s therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge, based in Newcastle, Co. Down.
Speaking on Mark’s support, Regional Community Fundraiser and Engagement Lead for the charity, Cormac McMullan, said:
“Every week in Northern Ireland, 3 children and young people (aged 0-24) are diagnosed with cancer and life turns upside down for them and their families.
“Our Cancer Support Specialists work to ensure these families don’t face their experience alone, but we couldn’t do that without the incredible support of generous fundraisers like Mark.
“Every mile he travels this June will make a huge difference in the lives of children and young people impacted by cancer.”
To find out more about this challenge, visit:
https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/12354/light-to-light-dawn-to-dusk/.
Cancer Fund for Children is here to help, guide and support families. Through services including individual support, group support and therapeutic short breaks, Cancer Fund for Children helps to empower family members, so they feel better equipped to cope with the emotional impact of cancer.
They also provide bereavement support to help families cope with the death of a child or parent.
Cancer Fund for Children needs to raise £3 million each year to deliver their services and rely heavily on public donations. If you would like to donate, please contact the charity on 028 9080 5599 or donate online at: cancerfundforchildren.com
