Derry sisters on the run for Brain Tumour Research fundraiser

Enya and Megan Quigley were due to run the Strabane/Lifford half marathon this month in memory of their best friend Michaela Bradley, who passed away in 2010.

However, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of many sporting events including the half marathon.

The sisters then decided to do a five kilometre run every day during the month of May to raise money for vital research into brain tumours.

Michaela was in sixth year when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Despite having surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. the tumour was very aggressive and Michaela, who was like a sister to both Enya and Megan, passed away in March 2010.

Enya wanted to raise money for research into brain tumours, as it receives just one per cent of the national cancer research spend despite brain tumours killing more children and people under 40 than any other cancer.

“When we couldn’t do the half marathon we decided to run 5k everyday during May. So far we have ran over 125 kilometres,” Enya said. “The challenge has been tough, since the half marathon was cancelled we had done little or no training. We have had a few blisters and swollen knees along the way, but we’re getting there.”

Enya said that they try to run together as much as possible, but they are both still working so it isn’t always possible for them to get out at the same time.

“Our schedules don’t always match, but we do try to do it together when possible. We have been appreciating many of the beautiful green areas when out on our runs and have been running along the Bay Road, St Columb’s Park and Brooke Park, among other places.”

Enya’s 12-year-old goddaughter Teagan also wanted to get involved and is taking part in the last seven of the 5k runs.

The sisters created a Facebook group so that people could follow their journey throughout the month. “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received online from family, friends and other members of the public. It helped us become more motivated to raise more money.”

The sisters initially had a target of raising £500, but have raised over £2,600 so far.

To donate visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/enya039s-campaign-for-brain-tumour-research