Paula Johnston from Fermanagh is getting set to conquer Northern Ireland’s highest peak to support local charity Friends of the Cancer Centre.

On Saturday 1st September, Paula and her friend Emma Lyons from Omagh will join forces with people from across Northern Ireland to take on Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Slieve Donard Challenge to raise vital funds to support the charity’s work. The 850m climb to the summit will take in breath-taking views of the Mournes, where on a clear day you can see as far as the Isle of Man and Scotland.

Looking ahead to the challenge, Paula said:

“Emma and I have both had family members who have been affected by cancer so we decided to sign up for the Slieve Donard Challenge to help raise funds to help other families just like ours. I was amazed to see the work that Friends of the Cancer Centre does to support local people affected by cancer. I am really looking forward to the day and even though it will be a challenge, I know that every step I take to reach the summit will help the charity to continue with its great work which helps so many people.

“I have seen first-hand how the work of the charity makes such a difference to cancer patients, so I would encourage everyone to get the family together and sign up for this year’s Slieve Donard Challenge. Not only will you have a great day out, but you will also be helping support local cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.”

Friends of the Cancer Centre is one of Northern Ireland’s leading cancer charities working to support local cancer patients and their families by enhancing the care and support they receive at every stage of their cancer journey. The charity does this by supporting life-saving and life-changing work in the areas of patient care, patient comfort and research. From funding 31 additional members of staff, vital medical equipment and supporting ground breaking cancer research; to providing thousands of free cups of tea and coffee to patients waiting on treatment. The charity’s work is extensive and everything it does has a direct and positive impact on local cancer patients.

Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Fundraising Officer, Sarah Breen said:

“Our Slieve Donard Challenge is set to be a fantastic day and we really hope lots of people sign-up and join us as we take on the 850m climb to the top. This will be a great personal challenge and it will give people a real sense of achievement when they reach the top of Slieve Donard. Each step will raise money which will help support thousands of people across Northern Ireland who have been affected by a cancer.”

Registration for the event is £10 per person and each participant is asked to raise a minimum of £50 for the charity. If you would like to sign-up for Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Slieve Donard Challenge, you can register online at www.friendsofthecancercentre.com or call the team on 028 9069 9393.