Iron man raises £21k for cancer charity

Jason Holmes (46), a certified and chartered financial planner who lives in Dollingstown, began his fundraising journey last May by hosting a benefit event at Daisy Lodge.

He then took part in a gruelling Iron Man triathlon in Nottingham, pushing himself to his physical limits, and has since raised additional funds via his company, Lumen Financial Planning.

The outdoor playground which Jason part-funded is an integral part of the Daisy Lodge facility in Newcastle, where families across Ireland whose lives have been devastated by cancer can enjoy a break together.

Jason spoke of his delight that the playground has already brought hours of joy to local children affected by cancer. He said: “It is very rewarding. I have a real sense of being very blessed in my upbringing, my work, my family and my health, and I am very thankful for these things. Others have not been as fortunate and it is fantastic just to be able to do something in a small way to help a child or a parent enjoy their time at Daisy lodge. Kids love to play, to smile and laugh, and if the play-park can help them do that - and help their parents smile and laugh too - then any sacrifice I make is so worthwhile.”

For anyone considering fundraising for Cancer Fund for Children, Jason has the following advice:

“Definitely do it! Fundraising helps you lift your eyes off yourself and realise the real need that is out there. You can make such a difference to others’ lives by giving or encouraging others to give - or by doing something challenging on behalf of others.”