Cousins go the extra mile for cancer charity

Friends of the Cancer Centre recently hosted a 150ft abseil challenge off the Europa hotel in Belfast which Gareth chose to participate in. Thanks to his head for heights, he managed to raised £820 of the total from this activity.

Jordan raised the other £762 from completing the recent Lap the Lough challenge. The annual not-for-profit cycle around Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland and Britain seen him cover approximately 85 miles in the name of charity.

It seems the boys charity side has stemmed from their grandfather, Rev Sam Peden from Dromore, Moderator of the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church of Ireland.

For over a year now, he has been the force behind the church’s charity association with ‘Friends’ and it is apparent that his charitable streak runs in the family.

Rev. Peden said, ” I’m very proud of my grandsons for the effort they have put into raising funds surrounding their chosen charity activities. It certainly didn’t seem to be a chore for them in any way and it was great to see them both filled with excitement on completion of their challenges.”

Colleen Shaw, Director of Friends of the Cancer Centre said, “Fundraising may be a serious business but that’s no reason why it shouldn’t be upbeat and enjoyable, as these boys have experienced. I am delighted with how much they have raised through these two activities.

“The Friends of the Cancer Centre has been supporting cancer patients and their families, raising money to buy equipment, patient comforts and funding important research for over two and half decades – and the need has not diminished.

“The money raised will contribute to the care and treatment of cancer patients in our community, making a real and meaningful difference to the lives of cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.”