Sharon remembered at 1 in 3 charity event

The event at Carrickfergus Cricket Club on August 16 was organised by the family of Sharon Boyd, who passed away in 2012 not long after she was diagnosed with leukaemia.

Over £730 was gathered over the course of the evening in aid of Carrick-based charity 1 in 3 Cancer Support.

Sharon’s daughter Lisa explained: “My mum was diagnosed with leukaemia in May 2012 and sadly lost her battle on June 1, 2012. She was a wonderful mother to myself, Stephen Boyd and Lauren Boyd and a great wife to Allan Boyd and we miss her every day. To me my mum was my hero and best friend. She was fun and caring and really did live each day as if it was her last.

“Even through her battle she stayed so strong and I am grateful she has given me this strength to organise charity events in her honour and to keep her name alive.

“It gives me a little peace knowing we can raise money for cancer-related charities so her death has some meaning. To date thanks to the support of family and friends we have raised £4,341 in total.

“She is missed every day but I know she is looking down feeling proud of all the support we have received.”

The cricket club event was supported by Pink tribute act Alecia Karr, who performed a number of songs on the night, with a disco provided by Lisa’s father Allan.

Lisa added: “I would like to thank everyone who turned up and those who bought ballots prior to Saturday night. My friends and family are amazing.

“Thanks to all those who donated gifts such as Louise McMaw from Simply Hair And Beauty, Lisa Phillips from Patchy Pillows, the Clarion, Robinson’s Shoes, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, U105 and those who brought gifts on the night. Thanks also to Alecia Karr; she was fantastic.

“For me it has been a pleasure to organise this event; I think what 1 in 3 do is amazing. I am so pleased with the amount we raised (£731) and hope it goes towards helping a few people in the smallest way.”

The 1 in 3 group was founded by local woman Janice Ferguson, who was diagnosed with breast cancer six years ago. The charity, which does not means test, offers practical support with tasks such as housework or gardening as well as access to counselling.

More information can be found by visiting www.1in3cancersupport.com.