John raises £10,000 for Action Cancer

IN April, Fold resident, Mr John Cross (68) started an epic walk around Northern Ireland for Action Cancer.

In under six weeks, John walked over 450 miles, visited 44 Fold Sheltered Schemes, raising a staggering £10,000 through the generosity of his fellow residents, Fold’s staff and other well-wishers.

An avid walker, John chose to undertake this challenge for Action Cancer as cancer affects so many people in Northern Ireland and within the Fold community. John set out from Knockmoy Fold, Cushendall on 16th April and after 38 days returned home on May 24th, having enjoyed the support and hospitality of many of Fold’s sheltered scheme staff and residents.

John McLean, Chief Executive of Fold Housing Association, commented: “Our tenants never cease to amaze me with their generosity and willingness to help those less fortunate. However, on this occasion, John Cross, who as recently as last year completed a walk across Ireland for the M.S. Society, has surpassed all expectations and has demonstrated that we can all do something which benefits the wider community.”

Fold Housing Association is a not-for-profit organisation and provides housing, care and support to over 25,000 people living in Fold accommodation or who choose to continue living in their own homes. The association manages over 5,000 homes across 50 towns in Northern Ireland, employing 800 staff. Fold offers a diverse range of support services including housing management of sheltered, family and special-needs housing; telecare support; a home adaptation service for older people and those with disabilities; and day care.

Fold has nearly 2,500 general needs homes for families and single people.

Fold also provides specialist housing-with-care for people who prefer to live in the community within Fold’s supported housing schemes. People with dementia and with learning disabilities are supported through a 24hr service and encouraged to maximise their independence.

Action Cancer is a Northern Ireland cancer charity, established in 1973 by cancer specialist Dr George Edelstyn. Our founder’s vision for the future was that people in Northern Ireland would be free from the risk of cancer. At Action Cancer today their mission is to save lives and support people and they maintain a pioneering role in the development of cancer services.

Action Cancer works right across Northern Ireland providing:

* Early detection services for the Northern Ireland community.

* Counselling and support services for cancer patients and their families.

* Cancer prevention.

* Health promotion.