A WOMAN from the Ards peninsula is preparing to lace up her running shoes and take part in the Belfast City Marathon.
Pharmacy technician Sarah Burns will be raising money in memory of her mum, who passed away from cancer, and for a cause and charity that is close to her heart.
“Cancer has taken people I love dearly,” said Sarah.
“We lost my father-in-law and most heartbreakingly, my mum. She faced cancer twice with incredible courage, determination and grace. Watching her fight was both inspiring and heartbreaking.
“After her second diagnosis, she sadly lost her battle and losing my mum left a pain that will never truly fade. It changed my life forever,” she added.
Sarah will take on the gruelling 26.2-mile challenge to raise money and awareness for Cure Leukaemia in support of her lifelong friend, whose young son has been diagnosed with the disease.
Cure Leukaemia funds specialist research nurses and clinical roles in blood cancer centres across the United Kingdom, helping patients access innovative and potentially life-saving treatments through clinical trials.
Sarah, who is based in the aseptic unit in the Ulster Hospital preparing chemotherapy treatments for patients, spoke about her determination to complete the marathon in May and support the vital work of Cure Leukaemia.
Sarah said: “When I heard the devastating news about my friend Kathryn’s son, Tommy, my heart broke all over again, especially for Kathryn and her family.
“Kathryn has been my friend since primary school. Seeing someone you love face something so cruel and unfair makes you feel helpless, but it also makes you determined to do whatever you can to help.”
She explained that Tommy himself chose the charity that Sarah would support through her marathon effort.
“I feel incredibly proud and honoured to run for him and for such a vital cause. Running has always been something I have enjoyed, but this time it means so much more.”
She added: “Training in wintry conditions has been challenging. My training sessions have been cold and wet and there have been times when it would have been far easier to stay at home.
“But whenever I struggle, I think about Tommy. I think about the strength, bravery and resilience he shows every single day while facing treatments and procedures that no child should ever have to endure.”
“Compared to that, every mile I run feels small. If it helps raise awareness and support, it is worth every step.”
With the countdown to race day well underway, Sarah said: “I am running in memory of my mum, in honour of Tommy and for every family whose life has been turned upside down by cancer. My hope is to raise as much money and awareness as possible for Cure Leukaemia and to help support families who are fighting battles no one should have to face.
“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me so far. Their kindness, encouragement and generosity mean more than they know.”
