RTÃ? TV Presenter, Stephen Byrne from Smithfield, faced up to his fear of spiders as part of a new challenge in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.
Stephen put it up to the eight-legged bugs by spending time getting to know Harry Tallulah, a Chilean Rose Tarantula.
It was a big deal for him as he has had a lifelong fear of spiders since having a nightmare encounter with a huntsman spider when he lived in Australia as a boy.
“I’ve always been terrified of spiders and I avoid them at all costs,
? he admitted before the challenge.
“When I was about four, living in Australia, I encountered a huntsman spider in our family car and I completely froze. Ever since then spiders absolutely terrify me. I actually can’t believe I agreed to do this but I am excited
?¦.kind of!
?
Stephen took on the challenge and later described how it went.
“It’s an amazing feeling, really light and tingling,
? he said.
“I’m totally buzzing now, I can’t believe I did it. It’s something I might do again in the future – but maybe not again right now.
“I think the campaign is a great idea and I hope other people take on a Fearless Challenge for the Irish Cancer Society. It’s a great cause and a really cool campaign.
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The Irish Cancer Society is now appealing to Dubliners to follow Stephen’s bravery and do something fearless for cancer. The challenge asks people to pledge to overcome their fears – no matter how big or small – for a cash amount of their choice.
Volunteers then tell everyone they know about their fearless challenge and try to reach their fundraising goal. Once that happens, they complete their challenge, record it and post it online.
“Whether your fear is something big like a skydive or bungee jump, or something really scary like spiders or snakes, or even something small, the idea is to be fearless and help those with cancer do the same,
? said Liz Logan, Campaigns Manager with Irish Cancer Society.
“I watched Stephen with that tarantula and I felt sick to my stomach – I hate spiders too. I hope he inspires other people to get out of their comfort zone and do the same thing.
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To get involved call the Fearless Hotline on CallSave 1850-606060 or visit www.fearlesschallenge.ie. All money raised goes to the Irish Cancer Society.