Phil’s 100K Your Way challenge

Phil McDonald, from Greenisland took part in our 100K Your Way Challenge during January raising over £2,000 to support our work. Phil had only taken up running last year, as a way to cope through his family’s tragedies and during lockdown. He was cheered on all the way by his wife, Kelly, and completed his running challenge alongside his children, James, Toby and Eve.

Phil explains his special reason for taking part in #100KYourWay and supporting Friends of the Cancer Centre.

“My dad, Billy, was diagnosed with myeloma after breaking his back at work a few days before Christmas 2019. Our family were heartbroken as he spent 3 months in hospital recovering and starting cancer treatment. Unfortunately, in that time we also lost my mum after a tragic accident. Words will never explain how our families’ lives fell apart and have never been the same.

My dad went through life a life-changing operation at the Royal Victoria Hospital and we were told that he probably wouldn’t walk  again. But many of you may have seen Billy out with the dog, strolling along the Antrim Road and we’re so proud of what he has been through. Apart from the broken back, he also has cancer to deal with.

During this time, dad was greatly supported by Friends of the Cancer Centre. Their funded nurses were there for him, to administer treatment and support him emotionally/ They were amazing.  Our whole family felt very supported too. We used the day rooms which the charity funds, to visit with the kids. Billy even met his 4th grandchild, baby Reuben, in the day room for the very first time. Having the privacy under these very difficult circumstances, away from the ward was just what we needed. It allowed the children to visit their granda in hospital but in a nicer setting, along with a hot chocolate and comfy sofas as they were a little afraid of the ward. All of these little things, made a big difference to our family and so, I am delighted to have been able to give something back to this wonderful charity that has supported us so much.”

If Phil has inspired you to take part in 100K Your Way, you can sign up now by clicking here

We’re always in need of volunteers to join our fabulous fundraising groups, help at events or in their local community, so if you have time to spare and would like to get involved, please get in touch to find out more.


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