Nurse Paddy Gates gears up for weekend marathon challenge in aid of NI Hospice

Paddy Gates from Magherafelt is planning to run 45 laps of The Mall to get the 26-mile marathon distance.

Paddy, a frontline worker, has worked in all the Trusts in Northern Ireland, most recently Causeway, Coleraine, Antrim Area, and Mid Ulster Hospitals.

He has also worked done shifts at Craigavon Area and Daisyhill Hospitals and hopes to work one day with the Northern Ireland Hospice.

"It's a really lovely place to work, dealing with palliative care and end of life," he said. "Every single penny raised in Saturday will go to NI Hospice funds and I know the money will be spent on something very positive."

He's already prepared by running the marathon distance in February, and says he will give run this Saturday "my best shot".

"I have decided to carry out this challenge as I want to show my strength and support, especially in this tough time, for this very worthwhile charity," he continued.

Paddy likes the triathlons and hopes to do more of them in the future. Last year he completed the Ballyronan Triathlon on the shores of Lough Neagh.

He will be helped by his partner, who is from the Armagh area, and friends manning the drinks station on Saturday. So, if you see him, give him a cheer and a small donation!

He has set up a Justgiving page which is nearing his £300 target, but all donations will be accepted! Visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paddy-gates1 --- A message from the Editor:

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