Newcastle dad tackles Mizen to Malin for children with cancer
A County Down dad is marking his 40th birthday by cycling the length of Ireland in aid of Cancer Fund for Children and Men’s Sheds.
On Saturday, June 20, Mark Rafferty, from Newcastle, will cover 356 miles, travelling from Mizen Head in Cork to Malin Head in Donegal in a single supported solo effort.
An endurance enthusiast, Mark said: “I’ll be taking on the biggest physical challenge of my life.
"I’m cycling the length of Ireland, from Mizen Head to Malin Head, within the window of civil dawn at 04:34 in the south to civil twilight at 23:15 in the north. That’s 356 miles and over 14,000 ft of climbing, all in a single supported solo effort.”
Mark went on to explain: “I’m doing this to support two charities that make a real difference in our communities.
"Cancer Fund for Children provides vital support to young people across the island of Ireland who are living with cancer, as well as children whose parents or siblings are diagnosed.
"As a father of two young children, the work they do to strengthen and support families genuinely moves me.
“I’m also raising funds for organisations that support men’s sheds across Northern Ireland, including Action Mental Health and Groundwork.
"Men’s Sheds offer purpose, connection, and a place to belong, not just for older men, but for younger men too. With 21.9% of all male deaths under 50 in 2024 confirmed as suicides, these safe, social spaces are more important than ever.”
The Cancer Fund for Children provides emotional, social and therapeutic support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer, at home, in hospital and at the charity’s therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge, based in Newcastle, Co. Down.
Praising Mark’s support, regional community fundraiser and engagement lead for the charity, Cormac McMullan, said: “Every week in Northern Ireland, three children and young people (aged 0-24) are diagnosed with cancer and life turns upside down for them and their families.
"Our Cancer Support Specialists work to ensure these families don’t face their experience alone, but we couldn’t do that without the incredible support of generous fundraisers like Mark.
"Every mile he travels this June will make a huge difference in the lives of children and young people impacted by cancer.”
Appealing for donations, Mark added: “If you’re able to support my challenge, no matter the amount, it would mean a great deal to me, and even more to the people these charities help every day.
"Thank you so much for your kindness and encouragement.”
Cancer Fund for Children
Every week in Northern Ireland another three children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer.
Cancer Fund for Children is here to help, guide and support families. Through services including individual support, group support and therapeutic short breaks, Cancer Fund for Children helps to empower family members, so they feel better equipped to cope with the emotional impact of cancer.
They also provide bereavement support to help families cope with the death of a child or parent.
Cancer Fund for Children needs to raise £3 million each year to deliver their services and rely heavily on public donations.
l If you would like to donate, please contact the charity on 028 9080 5599 or donate online at cancerfundforchildren.com
l To donate to Mark’s fundraiser visit www.givewheel.com/fundraising/12354/light-to-light-dawn-to-dusk/