Caitlin is my six year old cousin, who last year was diagnosed with leukaemia. Five years ago, when she was just one, her eldest brother Oisin, was diagnosed with the same illness. Oisin fought his leukaemia bravely, but unfortunately on 9th Jan 2008 he died aged just five. A few months later, on 24th April, our daughter Roisin was born seven weeks prematurely at Q.E.Q.M. Hospital weighing just 4lb 4oz. For the first few weeks of her life she was cared for brilliantly by the staff at the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU). Roisin will soon be five and is a healthy and happy child, who gives joy to everyone she meets. 

As a parent, nothing can explain the pain and fear of having a child gravely ill. Yet for Antoinette and Declan, this is the second time as parents that they have to witness the pain of a sick child. Caitlin is battling bravely and with fingers crossed her prognosis is hopeful.

On 31st Jan, I together with seven good friends will embark on a 24hr running and cycling challenge where a team of 4 runners and a team of 4 cyclists will form a relay and run or cycle for 24hrs. This will involve a member of each team running/cycling for 30 mins every 2 hours, for the duration of the event, meaning that each of us will run or cycle for 6 hours each to raise much needed funds for the ward where Caitlin is being treated and also SCBU at the QEQM Hospital where Roisin spent the first few weeks of her life.

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