Ballaghaderreen parents launch Malin to Mizen cycle in memory of late son

"When it comes to cancer, the easy road is not an option," said C.J.'s father, Joe.

C.J. McCann was just 21 months old when he lost his battle with a rare and aggressive brain cancer, ATRT (Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumour), in October last year. Now, his father Joe and 20 volunteers will undertake a grueling cycle from Malin Head to Mizen Head to raise funds for Hand-in-Hand and Oscar's Kids, two charities that supported the McCann family during their journey.

At the launch of CJ’s Rainbow Charity Cycle in Strandhill, Joe explained the rationale behind the event: "During our time on St. John’s, the National Paediatric Oncology Ward, I decided to fundraise for the charities that supported us during one of the toughest times of our lives. I chose Malin Head to Mizen Head because, like C.J., who faced every day with a smile, we wanted to take the harder route."

Joe, along with most of the team, is not a cyclist. The 21-member group will aim to complete the 630km journey in four days, starting at Malin Head on August 22 and finishing at Mizen Head on August 26.

CJ’s Rainbow Charity Cycle aims to raise €100,000 for Hand in Hand and Oscar's Kids, while honoring C.J.'s bravery. The McCann family hopes to raise awareness about the challenges faced by families dealing with childhood cancer in Ireland.

Hand in Hand, based in Loughrea, supports families nationwide by providing services such as counseling, play therapy, complementary therapies, hot meals, laundry, and domestic cleaning. For the McCann family, play therapy for C.J.'s sisters, Róisín (8) and Clódagh (6), has been invaluable. "Play therapy has been a gift for our girls," Joe said. "It reassured us that someone was looking after them when we couldn't be there."

Oscar’s Kids supports families coping with a child's terminal cancer diagnosis, creating moments of magic during tough times. The charity enabled the McCann family to plan C.J.'s Magical Christmas last September, their only Christmas together at home. "The memories from that special Christmas will be treasured forever," Joe reflected. "The generosity and support we received were incredible."

As the countdown begins, the cyclists have three months of intense training ahead. Each participant dedicates this cycle to C.J. and all children battling cancer, as well as their families.

Acknowledging the challenge of childhood cancer, Joe said, "It's one of the toughest experiences a parent can go through. The treatment is harsh, and parents on St John’s face many trying days. But the incredible kids and parents there inspire me every day. These children are heroes."

The McCann family aims to support these heroes through the funds raised by CJ’s Rainbow Charity Cycle. An iDonate page has been set up and will run until the cyclists reach Mizen Head on August 26, having covered 630km.

For donations, please visit iDonate page.