Co Antrim man's ‘21 day challenge’ in memory of late wife

Dermot Breen has previously generated thousands for Cancer Research UK with a number of long distance walks including the Ireland Way, the Ulster Way, and Camino de Santiago in Spain.

The treks were part of a wider fundraising initiative in memory of his late wife, Jacqui Breen.

Jacqui, who taught at Greenisland Primary School for over 25 years, lost her battle with ovarian cancer in January 2015.

Dermot's latest venture, which started on March 24, is the ‘21 day coronavirus challenge’.

The challenge has seen him run a one-hour, 8km (5 mile) route from his home and back every day.

In a post on his Facebook page 1000k4j (1000 kilometres for Jacqui), Dermot wrote: "Like many other people, I have been wondering about how to turn this self isolation period into something positive.

"I’m very conscious that many people are going to find the next few months (maybe longer) financially uncertain, but I’m also conscious that a lot of charities are going to find this time very difficult also in terms of being able to raise the funds they require to carry out their important work. That of course includes cancer charities such as Cancer Research UK.

"I obviously can’t embark on another long distance walk at this time, but the current Government guidance permitting one period of exercise a day allows me some scope. The challenge I have therefore come up with is to run from my home to the top of Lisnabreeny Hill, down the Cregagh Glen, back up again and back home, every day for 21 consecutive days regardless of the weather.

"If Government guidance changes during my challenge, making outdoor exercise impossible, then I will switch to an alternative indoor exercise for at least the same length of time.

Having set a £50,000 target for his latest appeal, Dermot is currently only a short amount away from his goal.

"I realise that it is not a great time to be seeking donations, but if you can give anything, no matter how small, it would be greatly appreciated," he said.

To make a donation, visit Dermot's JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/1000k4j

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