Coolock woman makes a dash for fundraiser 

A NORTHSIDE woman will be taking part in a major fundraising event this month in memory of her grandmother.

Melanie Hearns, from Coolock, has signed up for the Irish Cancer Society’s Colour Dash, which takes place at the Phoenix Park on June 23. 

She will be one of thousands participating  on the day. 

Melanie will be taking part in memory of her grandmother Mary Power who sadly died from cancer.  

Cancer has affected three generations of Melanie’s family as both she and her mum have also been treated for the disease.

“Cancer has had a huge effect on my life,” said Melanie.

“My nana passed away from stomach cancer about five years ago. 

“Being her only granddaughter I took it hard. We had a special relationship so I'm doing this to honour her.

“My mother was diagnosed with skin cancer two years ago which was successfully treated, and I’ve been treated for stage three cancerous cells on my cervix. 

“I can understand the fear the word cancer puts into you and the pain of losing a loved one from this horrific disease, so I’m taking on Colour Dash to support others affected and to remember nana.”

Colour Dash, sponsored by Aldi, is a fun-filled 5km suitable for all ages and abilities. Tickets are on sale now. You can sign up at cancer.ie/colourdash as spaces are limited and expected to sell out again this year. Registration is €30 per person, and €5 for children under 12.

As ‘dashers’ run, jog and walk the course, at each kilometre, they are doused from head to toe in a different colour of powder paint, representing a different type of cancer and cancer survivorship.

The Irish Cancer Society relies almost entirely on public donations to fund lifesaving cancer research and free services to support people affected by cancer. 

With cancer incidence on the rise the society is experiencing increased demand for its services so donations are crucial to ensure it can reach those in need.

Meanwhile, Aldi has announced that it is extending its sponsorship of Colour Dash until 2020 and local staff in Dublin are looking forward to participating in this year’s event.