Family and friends of a South Belfast woman who passed away suddenly before Christmas last year have raised more than £26K for NI Hospice.
Stephen McGeown, whose wife Aileen, 46, sadly passed away after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer, was joined by his son Conal as they all embarked on a personal fitness challenge during lockdown.
Together, Stephen and ‘Team Aileen’ walked, ran and cycled 800 miles, the equivalent distance between Malin Head to MizenHead and back, whilst raising vital funds for Northern Ireland Hospice, where Aileen received palliative care during her illness.
Stephen initially set out to raise £2,000, but says thanks to the generosity of friends, family and colleagues he has now raised over £26,000 for Northern Ireland Hospice.
He said: “I was very pleased with the positive response we received, and the amazing amount of money raised in Aileen’s memory, which will help the NI Hospice continue their invaluable work.
"Aileen was a wonderful mum, wife, and friend who is sorely missed. She was a truly inspirational woman who has given us the strength and courage to remain strong now and into the future.”
Mary McCall, Director of Commercial and Brand Development at NI Hospice said they are "truly humbled and grateful" to have received the donation from the McGeown family and friends.
"The Coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on our income, and we are reliant on support and donations from our local community, now more than ever," Mary added.
"The Northern Ireland Hospice currently cares for over 4,000 patients and families each year, and we are thankful that Stephen and his family were able to benefit from our service, and that their experience motivated them to ensure that the same care and compassion can be offered to others in the community."
