Mother and daughter put best foot forward for cancer charity

The event’s recent launch poignantly marked a year’s anniversary since Lynne’s daughter Sarah, a trainee nurse, was diagnosed with lymphoma.

The Slieve Donard Challenge is an exhilarating autumn sponsored trek, through the stunning scenery of the Mourne Mountains. It covers a variety of terrain, so it requires a little preparation and a reasonable level of fitness.

Lynne and her daughter completed the 5.5 mile walk last year and said: “If you aren’t a committed walker it may sound like quite a hike, but it’s not a race and everyone takes it at their own pace, enjoying the company as well as the views.

“Last year we had sunshine all the way and the scenery was like a picture postcard. When we got to the top of Slieve Donard we really felt on top of the world! I’d urge anyone to give it a go.

“Not only is the walk amazing, so too is the work funded by Friends of the Cancer Centre which seems to scale new heights every year. The charity is making a real difference to cancer sufferers and their families right across Northern Ireland by funding important research, treatment and patient comforts. For 25 years the charity has been a ‘friend in need’ to thousands of people facing cancer: now it needs friends to take part in the Slieve Donard Challenge.

"Having done it, I’d say this Walk is a great challenge, great fun and a great cause into the bargain! I’m looking forward to being part of it all this year too.”

The Slieve Donard Challenge sets off from the car park in Donard Park and follows the Glen River uphill through old woodland of Scots Pine, Oak and Birch. After crossing a stile, participants follow the track above the river for about 2kms, heading towards the saddle between Donard and Commedagh, after which they can set their sights on the ultimate goal of the summit of Slieve Donard.

There are limited places available for this challenge which offers the opportunity to support the Friends of the Cancer Centre and the projects it funds that help cancer patients and their families in Northern Ireland.

The registration fee is 10. Participants are encouraged to try to raise a minimum of 50 through sponsorship. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For further details and online registration or visit www.friendsofthecancercentre.com, or contact the ‘Friends’ fundraising office on 028 9069 9393 (you can make debit or credit card payments via telephone).