Join fundraising walk in aid of Cancer Focus

Join fundraising walk in aid of Cancer Focus

29 August 2018

CANCER Focus is to benefit from a fundraising walk being organised next weekend by Rowallane councillor Billy Walker.

He is planning to put his walking boots on next Saturday, September 8, to walk 10 miles around Delamont Country Park to raise funds for an organisation which provides a range of services, many of which are used by families across the district.

Cllr Walker will be raising money for the cancer charity’s family service which provides key support to children who have lost a parent to the disease which can leave them isolated, frightened and in need of comfort and help as a result of the dramatic change to their lives.

The Rowallane politician explained he decided to raise money for the charity following the fundraising efforts of Downpatrick sisters Emma and Evie Telford in support of Cancer Focus.

The girls lost their devoted mum Lorna to cancer almost four years ago and have organised a number of fundraising events since, with the money going to the charity to help other families.

Cancer Focus provides a dedicated service to help families cope with the devastating disruption to ordinary family life and works to minimise the long-term impact on children’s emotional well-being when a mum, dad or close family member has cancer. 

Cllr Walker said he was aware of the excellent work Cancer Focus does in the area and the comfort it has brought to many families at what is an incredibly difficult time for them.

“This charity does amazing work and I would be delighted if people will sponsor my walk around Delamont next Saturday.  They can also join me if they wish,” he said.

The fundraising walk is due to start at 9am and the Rowallane councillor has a number of sponsor forms if anyone would like to collect one from him to help him reach his total.

“People are very generous with a number already making donations,” explained Cllr Walker. “I have around £1,000 at the moment and hope to increase this figure.

“I have been very impressed with the work Emma and Evie have been doing to raise money for Cancer Focus in memory of their mum so it can provide help and support to other children who have lost a parent to cancer or whose mum or dad is currently battling the disease.”

The Rowallane politician said the charity’s staff did a wonderful job working alongside families experiencing the most challenging time in their lives.

“I know some families who have benefited from the support the charity provides, in particular Emma and Evie, who are a real credit to their mum. The sisters, like many others, simply could not have made it through the dark times without the support of this organisation.”

Cllr Walker said all the money raised on behalf of Cancer Focus stays in Northern Ireland and hopes people will sponsor his fundraiser and dust down their walking boots to join him.

He added: “All Cancer Focus NI services are provided free of charge for cancer patients and their families so the financial support they receive via fundraising is essential to allow dedicated staff to continue with their valuable work. 

“I know the money that I will be raising, with the support of others, will really make a difference to families in need. I am delighted that Emma and Evie will be joining me next Saturday and hope others will also join in.

“There is still time to support the fundraiser and people wishing to donate can contact me personally or via my social media page. Cancer Focus is an excellent organisation and deserves support.”