Running Dublin City Marathon 2023 in aid of the Irish Cancer Society I will be thinking of a number of people I've lost to cancer, my Granda, my friend Rachel, my cousin Michael, but I have decided to dedicate this run in particular to my Granny, Maura Lynch.

The eldest of 9 grandchildren, Granny and I always had a special bond. As a child I spent many Sundays enjoying her home-baked treats, a noted baker for her breads and tarts. Baking ended up being a skill we shared, as the roles reversed in years to come and it would be my baking (coffee cupcakes, her favourite) that Granny would go on to enjoy. I have so many fond memories of being sat at the table, sharing a cupán and catching up on the chat with Granny.

Granny was a warrior, fighting her battle for many years with courage, dignity, and always a smile on her face. The wonderful staff of the Medical Assessment Unit in Bantry Hospital will attest to this. Our family will be eternally grateful for the standard of care Granny received there over the years. To end up with half the fortitude of this woman would be an achievement.

One of my biggest supporters, Granny would no doubt be behind me all the way in this endeavour, whilst simultaneously thinking me mad! A quiet reserved woman, she would shy away from the idea of it being done in her name. However it is merely a small gesture to dedicate this run to her, a drop in the ocean by comparison to the years of love, kindness, warmth, patience, and care she showed to each and every one of us.

Here's to you Granny! Hope you're up there sharing a cupán with Granda, dancing to your hearts content and smiling down on us all!