Local MLAs ‘breath easy’ over marathon effort

Messrs McIlveen and Frew will be joining their office staff to run the marathon as a relay team in support of Northern Ireland’s newest Breathe Easy group – Breathe Easy Ballymena.

The members and their staff have been highly supportive of Breathe Easy Ballymena, in recognition of the devastating impact that lung conditions can have on the lives of individuals, families and the wider community.

David McIlveen MLA added: “Breathe Easy Ballymena has been a tremendous addition to our local community. The support it offers those living with lung conditions is a real life-line and I’m keen to do whatever I can to support that.”

Paul Frew MLA said he was similarly thrilled to be supporting the new group.

“Running the Belfast marathon will be a challenge for all of us, but it’s one we’re looking forward to.

“The Belfast marathon is a great opportunity to highlight some of the great work that’s going on in our communities and to give community groups such as Breathe Easy Ballymena, the support they deserve.”

BLF Development Officer for Northern Ireland, Nessie Blair MBE, will also be taking part - for the fifth consecutive year to raise money for the charity.

Nessie said: “I’m raising money for the British Lung Foundation because I’ve seen first hand the life-changing difference that its work makes to those with lung conditions in Northern Ireland.”