Portaferry’s Ciara supports children’s charity

Portaferry’s Ciara supports children’s charity

27 September 2023

PORTAFERRY Olympian and Irish record holder Ciara Mageean is urging people to take part in this Saturday’s Children’s Cancer Unit Charity (CCUC) Stormont Mile fundraiser to support children and families living with childhood cancer.

The weekend event is a unique one mile race and walk which launches from Parliament Buildings with participants making their way down the iconic avenue.

Ciara has gained records at one mile, 800m and 1,500m distances and last month finished fourth at the World Athletics Championships. In 2022, she came second in both the European Championships and the Commonwealth Games 1500 metre events.

As an ambassador for the Children’s Cancer Unit, the Portaferry athlete is “delighted” to be back supporting a the cancer charity

“Walking or running just one mile is a simple task for us and it’s absolutely nothing compared to the challenges faced by children living with this devastating disease every day,” said Ciara.

“I hope the weather stays nice and clear for us and we get a great turnout on Saturday so we can stomp on Stormont to raise awareness of childhood cancer and raise as many funds as we possibly can.”

People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to sign up as there will be a race for everyone and fun outdoor activities to keep families entertained throughout the event. 

The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity supports the work of the Children’s Haematology and Oncology Unit at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. 

The charity’s chief executive, Jane Hoare, revealed that between 60 and 70 children are diagnosed with cancer in Northern Ireland every year.

“Every one of these children will be treated at the Children’s Cancer Unit in Belfast as it is the only place where they can receive specialist treatment for cancer,” she explained.

“Funds raised through the CCUC Stormont Mile will go directly towards supporting these families, as well as the incredible teams that care for them, so we hope walkers and runners of all ages and abilities will join us at Stormont to show their support this Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.”

Hagan Homes is the weekend event’s main sponsor.

The race begins at noon and to register visit www.childrenscancerunit.com/stormontmile.