Sisters' poignant marathon challenge

TWO Ballycastle sisters will don their running shoes this Monday in memory of their friend while at the same time raising money towards patient care and research into the disease which claimed her life.

Louise Brolly and Helena Dornan’s pal Kealen Duncan passed away following a battle with cancer at the age of just 35.

As a tribute the girls will wear t-shirts with a picture of their friend on the back for the gruelling Belfast Marathon.

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And all money raised through the venture will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Helena (38) is an experienced marathon runner and has been giving her younger sister Louise (36) tips and advice to ensure she is in tip-top condition on the day.

As part of the training regime mum-of-three Louise - a registered childminder - gets up at 5.30am on her days off to pound the roads.

And thanks to that meticulous preparation, the 26 mile run has been made a lot less daunting.

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Indeed Louise - a member of both Ballycastle Camogie and Hockey Club - has already covered the remarkable distance, notching up over 26 miles in just three hours and 44 minutes on Easter Sunday.

“Helena has done a few marathons before,” Louise told the Times.

“This will be my first though I did a half marathon in Newcastle last year after I promised Kealen I would.

“But Helena has been wonderful and I wouldn’t be able to attempt this without her.”

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Louise and Helena - who works in McMullans Chemist, Ballycastle wished to thank Donna’s Designs for printing the t-shirts free of charge.

If you wish to support the girls call 07846268045 or visit: www.justgiving.com/louisebrolly