MIAM web banner 2020 2

Raise funds for people affected by cancer with a virtual Marathon in a Month

People of all fitness levels urged to clock up 42kms in one month to support crucial services

The Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to get active and clock up a Marathon in a Month this June to help support people affected by cancer.

The effects of the coronavirus pandemic are far-reaching for the cancer community and the Irish Cancer Society has expanded its services and introduced new ones in order to be there for people at this worrying time.

Marathon in a Month, proudly supported by Ballygowan, will help raise vital funds to keep new and existing services going.

Participants have one month to clock up 42kms and it can be done safely within the public health guidelines. You can do it in your home, in your garden, on an exercise bike - it's up to you. 

Breast Cancer survivor Carol Vaudrion (53) will be taking part in Marathon in a Month for the second time.

Carol, from Co Kildare, was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2018 and underwent extensive treatment including surgery, chemotherapy and radio therapy.

“It was a rollercoaster year and when I finished treatment I knew exercise would play a big part in rebuilding myself and Marathon in a Month was the perfect way for me to work towards a goal while supporting others,” she said.

Marathon in a month is suitable for people at all stages in their fitness journey – including those who want to tackle that very first kilometre. It is also an excellent way to stay connected with your workmates while working remotely by coming together virtually for this important cause.

Participants can link their everydayhero online fundraising page to their fitness app and keep track of their progress as they raise money to help the 40,000 people in Ireland who will be diagnosed with cancer this year.

Last year almost 1,000 people committed to undertaking a Marathon in a Month, clocking up more than 12,000km and raising more than €130,000 in the process.

Mark Mellett, Director of Fundraising with the Irish Cancer Society said, “During these challenging times demand for our services is growing. We have expanded our Support Line, introduced remote counselling and we are working hard to meet increasing demand for our Night Nursing Service. To ensure we can continue to meet these demands, we are relying on virtual and online events like Marathon in a Month now more than ever. With campaigns like Daffodil Day affected by the coronavirus, we are so grateful for those who have already signed up for Marathon in a Month. It really is a great way to complete a marathon safely and at the same time provide much needed care and support for cancer patients and their families at this very difficult time.”

This year for the first time Marathon in a Month is proudly supported by Ballygowan.

Elaine McCague, Marketing Controller at Britvic, said, “We are delighted to be working with the Irish Cancer Society again and especially as Marathon in a Month is a great way to get fit, have some fun and raise much needed funds to help those affected by cancer and their loved ones.”

For more information or to register to participate in Marathon in a Month visit https://marathoninamonth.cancer.ie/