LETTERKENNY man Shaun Boyle is set to run the Dublin Marathon in memory of his mother Grace who sadly passed away from cancer last year.
Grace was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016 and was in remission when she unfortunately began feeling unwell five years later.
After a few weeks in hospital, doctors discovered Grace’s breast cancer had been dormant and over time had spread.
Three days after Grace was told the news she sadly passed away.
Grace was described by those who knew her as a selfless, kind and caring woman, who was also an avid walker.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Shaun said she regularly went on several walks per day to achieve her daily step target which she monitored rigorously.
Shaun will be completing the marathon wearing his mother’s Fitbit.
“It will be a fitting way to honour her by completing the marathon wearing her Fitbit and thus keeping her steps, her journey and most importantly, her propensity to help others going,” he said.
Although Shaun has never run a marathon before, he is no stranger to running competitively. He ran until he was 16 years old with his local athletics club in Letterkenny and said his mother would be happy he’s coming back with a bang.
“My mum was always nagging me to get back at it,” he joked.
Shaun and his girlfriend, Sophie Twomey, will run the 26.2 miles in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.
After running 20-30 kilometres a week to and from work, Shaun and Sophie have completed their training and are all set for the big day.
Shaun said Sophie has been very supportive and helpful through everything he’s been through.
“She stuck by my side through everything and my mum was very fond of her,” he said.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise the vital funds needed by the Irish Cancer Society.
So far, they have raised almost €10,000.
If you would like to make a donation you can do so at https://gofund.me/e51f8cfe
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