Derry teenager raises Â£20k in first year

A charity set-up to help young people affected by cancer is one year-old this week.

‘Jamie’s Journie’ was founded by Derry teenager, Jamie Harkin.

Seventeen year-old Jamie has twice battled cancer and since setting up ‘Jamie’s Journie’ has raised more than £20,000.

“A few things really touched me through the first year and one of them was a guy who used to work with my mum. He just called one day and explained his father had passed away and they had sold his beloved pigeons and he wanted the £500 to me,” said Jamie.

Jamie and Caolan Murphy presenting a cheque on behalf of his mum who cut off her hair and raised a staggering Â£1463.00. Caolan and his little brother are Journie kids!

“Another thing was my school, Lumen Christi, they have raised over £4,000 since February with monies still coming in.

“The City Hotel have been incredible, so has Million Dollar Fitness and #TEAMSORCHA who have all raised amazing amounts of money on my behalf.

“I could go on and on about the good things people have done but I’d fill the whole ‘Journal’.

“Thank you to everyone who has helped me in any way - it’s the craziest feeling in the world that we have raised a grand total of £20,356.05 in a year. You are the real superheroes and without you I couldn’t help anyone.”

Jackie Doherty presenting the cheque on behalf of his late father, Micheal O'Doherty for Â£500. Included is Jamie's sister, Faith.

Jamie said he never envisaged that ‘Jamie’s Journie’ would make such an impact and explained he was every bit as eager to provide young people with the help and support they require.

“I never expected anything back. ‘Jamie’s Journie’ was my way of turning a negative experience into something positive,” he said.

“I’d also like to thanks James and Erin McClean and their family and Mark Hamill for what they have done.

“Thanks also to all those who have make sure ‘Jamie’s Journie’ is able to thrive.”