Cystic Fibrosis Ireland has launched its Malin to Mizen fundraising cycle and is looking for volunteers to take part.
More than 1,200 people in Ireland are currently living with cystic fibrosis, which has the highest rates and most severe types of the disease in the world.
The hardy cyclists will leave Malin Head on Thursday, May 10 to cycle the 147km to Bundoran. From Donegal, it will be onwards to Oranmore (Galway), then Mallow (Cork), before finishing in Mizen on Sunday, May 13.
Speaking to the Inish Times, Peter Minchin, the community and branch fundraising officer of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (www.cfireland.ie) said: “The aim of the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF is to raise awareness and funds to help provide support and services for people with cystic fibrosis in Ireland.
“These include support grants for people living with Cystic fibrosis, for exercise, transplant assessment, fertility treatment and counselling, as well as research and new healthcare facilities.
“The 2018 Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF will be in memory of Lisa Dolan (RIP) from Athlone who sadly passed away earlier this year. Lisa had cystic fibrosis and received a double lung transplant in 2016. She helped to launch the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF 2017 in Athlone in November 2016.
“It is a fitting tribute to Lisa that this year’s event will be in her memory, as she encouraged people to sign up and take part in the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF to support people living with CF in Ireland less than 12 months ago,” said Mr Minchin.
Peter Minchin said the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF would be a great opportunity for cyclists to view the “incredible scenic routes” Ireland offers.
He added: “Cyclists would also be part of a great event which will raise much needed funds to help support.”
The Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF is being supported by three-time All Ireland medal winning footballer, Alan Brogan and Olympic boxing medalist, Michael Carruth.
Alan Brogan said: “I am delighted to support this event, which is for such a worthy cause, supporting people with cystic fibrosis in Ireland. Register now, and you will be signing up for the experience of a lifetime whilst raising much needed funds for a great cause.”
Michael Carruth added: “The Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF is a great event. Exercise is so important for everyone and particularly for people with cystic fibrosis. I am honoured to be an ambassador for such a great cycle so register now as places are limited.”
Cyclists who wish to take part in the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF can register now at www.cfireland.ie. The fundraising target for participation in the cycle is €2,000 which covers food and accommodation over the 4 day cycle.
There are a limited number of places left and registrations close on Friday, January 26.
Donations to the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF can also be made online at www.cfireland.ie or text "HELPCF" to 50300 to donate €2 to Cystic Fibrosis Ireland.
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