A 24-hour walking challenge to raise money for the Cancer Fund for Children kicks off at Craigavon Lakes this Saturday, August 6.
More than 800 participants will be taking part in the Hiking for Little Heroes event which starts at 11am.
The walk was the idea of Banbridge man David Watson, whose son Adam was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in October 2019 at the age of seven, and who has set up the charity B Positive.
The Watson family are also members of Hiking for Little Heroes, a group made up of friends from across Northern Ireland who have been fundraising for the past 18 months.
Said David: “We are completely overjoyed by the support we’ve received for this challenge, and we can’t wait to kick off on Saturday morning.
“Since launching this event we have received an unbelievable amount of sign-ups, donations and good wishes from the local community and beyond and we can’t wait to put it all to good use and deliver a great event, a fun weekend and some vital funds to such a worthwhile organisation.”
Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children, said: “We are dedicated to supporting children, families and young people impacted by cancer and this simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support we receive from groups like Hiking for Little Heroes.
“Their passion and commitment to fundraising, as well as their ability to create fun and friendship wherever they go is inspiring and makes us so excited for this weekend.”
Over the past 18 months, the group has raised more than £120,000 for children’s cancer charities across Northern Ireland.
They are also planning to take on Mount Kilimanjaro in January of next year.
The 24 Hours for Little Heroes event has been sponsored by Wilsons Auctions and Road Trucks Ltd.
Among those taking part are Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Paul Greenfield and MP Carla Lockhart.
Ms Lockhart said: “We are both inspired by Adam and the B Positive team, and the ongoing work of Daisy Lodge makes such a difference to children and their families who are facing such huge health challenges.
“In response Paul and I have entered a team into the 24 hour hike for Little Heroes .. We would love some additional members of our team, and would encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”
The Lord Mayor added: “Adam’s Army and B Positive continue to do amazing work at raising awareness of children’s cancer. Adam is a real hero locally, and I am delighted to be getting behind this fundraiser that will support B Positive and the invaluable work of Daisy Lodge.
“Donations are welcome, and a GoFundMe page has been set up – details can be found on my Facebook page, and on Carla’s Facebook page. Please support us if you can, either financially or through being part of our team.”
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