An Armagh teenager is preparing to complete the final miles of a 100-mile charity walk after her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis left the family “reeling”.
Holly Regan has pledged to walk 100 miles during October for Breast Cancer Now, which has supported her mother Gillian and the family during a difficult period. She had reached 79 miles when the family made plans for her to complete the final stretch around The Mall in Armagh on Saturday, October 31.
Holly was due to begin the last part of the challenge at about 11am, with her family hoping to be there to support her. The fundraiser coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Family facing a second major change
Gillian, originally from Killylea and now living in Clonoe, discovered a lump and was referred urgently by her GP. She was diagnosed following a biopsy and had already undergone surgery. Chemotherapy was due to begin the week after the report was published.
The diagnosis came in August, shortly after Gillian married her husband, Brian, in July. She described the news as devastating and shocking, saying it left her struggling to take in what was happening.
While Gillian prepares for the next stage of her treatment, Holly has been walking every day to raise money for the charity supporting her family.
Fundraiser reaches £3,000
Holly had raised £3,000 at the time of the appeal. Gillian said her daughter had fitted the challenge around studying for A Levels and working part-time at Digby’s and in a care home.
Holly’s fundraising is sponsored by Premier Property in Armagh. The family thanked the business, donors and everyone else who had helped with the challenge.
Breast Cancer Now provides research and support for people affected by breast cancer. Gillian said the charity offered help by telephone, answers to questions and information leaflets for people after diagnosis.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Holly,”
Gillian said Holly’s efforts had required considerable strength while she was also dealing with the emotional impact of the diagnosis.
Message to women in Armagh and beyond
Gillian also used the appeal to encourage women to check themselves and seek medical advice if they had any concerns.
“Please, please everyone, just check,”
she urged, stressing the importance of speaking to a GP when someone is in any doubt.
People wishing to support Holly’s final miles can donate through her JustGiving page, which was linked from the original appeal.