A radio DJ will bring her fundraising marathon challenge to Fermanagh this June in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Sonya Mac will be hitting the ground running this June as she sets herself the colossal challenge of running six marathons in six weeks in six counties.

The popular radio star is taking on her ‘Mac-athon’ – in aid of Cancer Research UK as a tribute to her dad, James, who died last June from cancer of the stomach at the age of just 65.

It was only six weeks from when Sonya’s dad was diagnosed with cancer last April until he died. This was all the more shocking as he had no symptoms and the disease was only picked up through routine blood tests by his GP.

An only child, Sonya and her dad were extremely close. “We shared the same interest in cars and motorbikes” she said, “and he was always there for me at the end of the phone if I needed him.” Organising this fundraiser for cancer research in her dad’s memory is helping Sonya to cope as she struggles to get used to life without her dad.

Her first marathon will be held on the same day as Race for Life 2014, Sunday June 1, setting off after the race at Stormont at 3pm.

 Her fifth stop will be at the Bawnacre, Irvinestown, on June 29.

“There can be few families whose lives have not been touched by cancer,” said Sonya, “That’s why I am asking folk to support me – in any way they can.

“I’m doing it for Dad – let’s get together and help beat cancer sooner.”