Couple heads off to Kilimanjaro

Chris Henderson (26) who is recovering from surgery having had a plate installed in his cheek just two weeks ago plans to climb Kilimanjaro with girlfriend, Rebecca Murtagh to raise money for Cancer Research.

Chris who plays for Belfast Harlequins, broke his cheek while playing a game but will make the trek with Rebecca who is currently studying Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast in July.

Their two week trip will include a trek which will start off in desert type conditions and it will end with snow - temperatures are expected to range from -20 degrees centigrade to +20 degrees centigrade.

“We just wanted to do something as we are both young and healthy,” said Chris. “I always wanted to do something ever since my grandfather died ten years ago but never got round to it.

“We both have family members who have died from cancer. My grandfather and Rebecca’s granny have died of cancer so it is close to our hearts.

“We also have friends who has or knows someone who has cancer. Every week you seem to hear of someone else who has been diagnosed.

“It was Rebecca who actually suggested doing the trek,” said Chris. “We are both young and active.

“She is a runner and I play rugby so the physical aspect should not be a problem. It is the altitude sickness that I would worry about.”

They will fund the £2,000 trip themselves so any money from fund-raising events will go directly to the charity. They have organised bag packing events and held a barbecue supported by members of Lurgan Emmanuel Church. They have already raised £1,600 .

The couple are holding a fundraising event at the Tannery in Moira on April 19. The event will include live music by local acoustic singer Gavin Robinson and folk group Man in the Parks, finishing with local DJ Brian Scott.

There will be food included, a raffle with donations from local businesses and an auction to win a signed Ulster Rugby Shirt. Tickets £7 are available from The Tannery Bar.

Anyone who would like to donate can do so by going to the just giving page or text KILJ86 £(amount) to 70070.