Two Armagh breast cancer survivors are preparing to bring their fundraising campaign to a close after a packed programme of community events generated what organisers describe as remarkable local support.
Michelle McDonald and Aine Canavan, who each experienced breast cancer separately, are behind The Big Ribbon Fundraiser. Now in recovery, the friends have organised a series of events to raise money for Pretty N Pink Breast Cancer Charity, Leukaemia & Lymphoma and Cancer Fund for Children’s Daisy Lodge.
The money raised will be divided equally between the three charities, all of which have a personal significance for the organisers.
Friends reunited through cancer journeys
Michelle and Aine first knew each other as children at Darkley Primary School. As teenagers, they worked together at Longstone Nursing Home, before losing touch for several years.
Both later married and went their separate ways. Michelle came back into contact with Aine while Aine was going through breast cancer treatment. Months after they reunited, Michelle received her own diagnosis.
Michelle said the circumstances were difficult, but that it was “so precious that we had eachother”. Once they had both reached recovery, they decided they wanted to give something back to the organisations that had supported them.
The pair began planning in April 2026, considering events including afternoon teas, fun runs, table quizzes and tractor runs. Unable to choose between the ideas, they decided to organise all of them with help from friends who became known as the team of ‘Ribbons’.
Events across the Armagh area
The campaign began with a tractor run and children’s fun day in Granemore, described by the organisers as hugely successful. Further events followed, including a table quiz in Keady, Fit4Four, KidsROX and a triathlon-style event.
The organisers also held a sold-out Sparkle & Sip Ladies’ Afternoon Tea at Basil Sheils in Tassagh last Saturday. The event brought 220 women to the venue and included an appearance by County Tyrone author and cancer campaigner Emma Heatherington.
Michelle said attendees left “buzzing” after the evening, which she described as another major success for the fundraising team. The Basil Sheils team also commented on the organisers’ positive energy.
Alongside Michelle and Aine, the wider group includes their children, known as the ‘Little Ribbons’. Michelle said the support of the volunteers, their husbands Stuart and John, and their children had been essential to delivering the programme.
Two final events planned
The next major event is The Big Ribbon 10-Mile Road Race and 3K Family Fun Run in Clonmore. It is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, with support from Healthy Kids.
The programme will conclude with a Gala Ball at Basil Sheils Bar and Restaurant on November 7.
Michelle said the campaign had received support through donations, sponsored prizes and volunteer time. Businesses, both local and from further afield, contributed sandwiches, traybakes and champagne receptions, helping the organisers run the events at minimal cost.
She said the generosity reflected the number of people whose families or friends had been affected by cancer. The pair have also repeatedly been asked whether The Big Ribbon Fundraiser could become an annual event, and plan to continue some of the most popular activities each year.
“It’s a win, win,” Michelle said. “It’s a great way to have fun, bring people together and raise money at the same time.”
Members of the public can make a contribution or follow The Big Ribbon Fundraiser for information about upcoming events through the organisers’ online appeal.