Sharon's 100-mile run fundraiser in memory of her dad

AUGHAGOWER local Sharon Burns-Fayne challenged herself on New Year’s Eve to help raise money for the Mater Foundation to purchase a purpose-made chair for the oncology and haematology unit costing €800.

The chairs are designed to make the long chemotherapy sessions, which can last up to five hours, more durable and comfortable for the patient.

With that in mind, Sharon, who admits that she's unfit, was determined to take on the challenge of running 100 miles in the month of February to raise the money, knowing that pushing herself out of her comfort zone will bring some relief to another during gruelling times.

Sharon’s father, Tommy Burns, a native of Mayneen in Westport, lost his six-month battle with small cell lung and stomach cancer in May of last year. Struggling to come to terms with his death, knowing that her dad is watching her every step of the 100 miles is keeping Sharon motivated, especially during the first days of the challenge through the snow and the heavy rain at the start of February.

Running between 5 and 10km a day, sometimes twice a day around Aughagower and on the greenway, Sharon has already raised €400 but just needs a little bit more help to reach the €800 target for the chair.

All donations are greatly appreciated and can be made directly to the link provided on her Facebook page – Sharon’s run a 100 miles in the month of February – and there is also a sponsorship card in Scott’s in Aughagower.

A big thank you to everyone who has already donated: 100% of donations go directly to the Mater Foundation which raises funds to support the Mater Hospital in delivering exceptional patient care that makes a real and lasting difference for over 300,000 patients’ visits, and the loved ones by their side.