THE selfless inspiration shown by nine-year-old Zak Fletcher from Killyleagh has been recognised with a reception for him and his family at Parliament Buildings.
Zak, who has a diagnosis of stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, was invited to Stormont last week to receive a donation to his cancer charity campaign, Zak Gives Back.
He was greeted by Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly MLA and Strangford MLA Harry Harvey who expressed their admiration for Zak’s fundraising and campaigning work.
They also praised the resilience, courage and determination he has shown in the way he has faced his own cancer treatment over recent years.
The enthusiastic young sportsman, who has a particular passion for rugby, sailing and golf, is raising funds for the cancer support charities which have helped him and his family so that he can help other children in a similar situation.
Emma Little-Pengelly described Zak as, ‘exceptionally brave and inspiring’, adding, “Despite everything he’s been through, his determination to give back and support the charities that have stood by him and his family speaks volumes about his character.”
Strangford MLA Harry Harvey took the opportunity offered by the visit to hand over to Zak’s charity the proceeds of a Christmas Sit Out he had organised in Ballynahinch.
Said Mr Harvey: “People came from near and far to show support, and we even had Party leader Gavin Robinson join us on the day on his journey home from London.
“So far, we have raised more than £700 which I was honoured to hand over to Zak this week to support his chosen charities.
“To see him now leading his own campaign which has raised around £35,000 to help others truly brings this effort full circle. I’d encourage everyone to get behind Zak Gives Back and support the vital work of these charities.”
Donations to Zak’s fundraising campaign can be made online through the Zak Gives Back page – https://www.gofundme.com/f/sfmzqm-zac-gives-back
