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Friends Megan Cairns and Katie McArthur joined forces for the poignant fundraiser in Foyle College on Wednesday for a cause that is very close to both of their hearts.

Megan, a pupil at Foyle College, explained: “We are both doing 26.2 miles on the treadmills in Foyle College to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

“Katie and I were deciding which charity we should contribute to and we came to the conclusion that everybody knows somebody with cancer or someone who has been affected by it.”

Student Katie McArthur, Lisneal College, and Megan Cairns, Foyle College, pictured with Mayor Sandra Duffy during a break in their treadmill marathon in aid of Cancer Research UK, at the school on Wednesday morning. Photo: George Sweeney. DER2308GS – 95

Megan sadly lost her grandmother Davida to the illness just before Christmas in 2021, while Katie has suffered bereavement through cancer in the loss of her great-grandmother.

“In my case it was my nanny Davida and in Katie's case it was her great-granny.

“We felt it was really important to raise money for research to help with treatment in the hope that some day there might be a cure,” said Megan.

The fundraiser has been boosted by the school communities at Foyle College and at Lisneal College, where Katie is a pupil, as Megan explained.

Foyle College student Megan Cairns and Lisneal student Katie McArthur who participated in a treadmill marathon in aid of Cancer Research UK, at the school on Wednesday morning, pictured with Mayor Sandra Duffy and, from left, vice-principal Deirdre McLaughlin, Archdeacon Robert Miller, Chair of the Board of Governors, the Rev Nigel Cairns, father of Megan, Deputy Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry, Ian Crowe MBE Lord-Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry and Lisneal principal Michael Allen. Photo: George Sweeney. DER2308GS – 94.

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"Working with the two schools has been a brilliant. Both schools have helped the event grow bigger than we ever imagined. The two schools have been really good as have the two principals, the two Mr. Allens [Michael at Lisneal and Patrick at Foyle]. It has just been amazing the support we have got behind it,” said Megan.

As anyone who has ever attempted one, a marathon run is not for the faint hearted. Thankfully both girls are regular trainers and should take the challenge in their stride.

"I play hockey at Foyle College and Katie is a football player so we are both from sporty backgrounds,” said Megan.

The charity marathon has already raised over £800 but you can still contribute to a great cause at www.gofundme.com/f/5ercz-cancer-research-fundraise r

As Katie and Megan have stated: “We are doing this in memory of all those who lost there life to cancer last year, therefore all sponsorship will be gratefully received.”

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