A MAN who took on a gruelling mega-marathon challenge has raised more than £26,000 for a Belfast children's cancer unit charity.
Denis Murphy was inspired to complete the Seven Sisters 27k Mountain Marathon in Donegal by his son Zach, who is currently undergoing treatment at the Haematology and Oncology Unit at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.
Mr Murphy, from Kilkenny, completed the 27km running event in eight hours and 20 minutes, raising vital funds for The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity, which supports the work of the Haematology and Oncology Unit.
Every year, between 60 and 70 children are diagnosed with cancer in Northern Ireland.
Each of these children will visit the Children’s Cancer Unit as it is the only place where children with cancer and blood disorders can receive specialist treatment.
Mr Murphy, who is 65 and the Chairman and Chief Executive of Cloud Analytics firm, Anaeko, said: "The Seven Sisters was tough, but it really was a simple feat compared to the challenges children living with cancer face every day.
"The strength and determination of my son and all the other children at the Unit motivated me to keep going," he said.
"Every step was worth it, knowing it was going towards such an amazing cause".
Mr Murphy added: "Like all families in our situation, we never expected a childhood cancer diagnosis in our home.
"Since then, I have witnessed first-hand the incredible work the medical team and staff at the Unit do to help children and families during the most difficult period in our lives.
"I wanted to give something back, so I wish to thank everyone for their support and I look forward to more successful fundraising activities throughout the year with my team at Anaeko".
Felix Mooney, Chairman at The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity, said: "We commend Denis for his incredible achievement and for kick-starting Anaeko’s fundraising initiatives.
"Without corporate partners like Anaeko, we wouldn’t be able to carry out our vital work," he said.
