Mike loved life!

He loved to work hard, play harder and hiking was not only one of our first common passions, it was also the last thing that we did together….

At the young age of 45, Mike was taken from us all too soon, by a savage disease that still has no cure. And although the last few months of his life were difficult and painful, this was greatly eased by the wonderful staff and facilities in Marie Curie’s Lavender suite in Belfast.

This care costs thousands of pounds and it is only through charitable donations that this wonderful service was available for my best friend. 

Mikes Hike is something that initially I wanted to do for myself as a way to take dedicated time to remember my best friend, to take some time each year to get outdoors, the way we always did along the North Coast when we saw one another and have a good chat and a catch-up. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought of it as an opportunity to do something good, to create something that everyone could take part in, and something that would help the charity that had helped Mike in the last few months of his life. To help raise vital funds for this outstanding organisation, but also as a opportunity for friends and family to get together and remember Mike.

His birthday (12th February) seemed to be the most apt date, and as I’d known him 28years the distance chosen was 28miles (45km). The route will be from Portballintrae to Carrick-a-rede (a quick break) and back again, along the coastal path! This hike is challenging and not for the faint of heart. Starting at sea level and rising over 300ft in places with steps and styles, across some rough, rugged and pretty muddy terrain so a good fitness level is required. But if that sounds like too much, don’t despair as there are several sections of shorter distances along the way which can be taken instead (details to follow on Facebook page.)

Monday 12th February 2024 (or nearest day depending on wind and tidal conditions)

If you would like to take part then please message Mikes Hike Facebook page for details.

So all that remains is for me to say - Thank you for taking the time to visit and read this! Thank you for your kind and generous donation in memory of Michael (Mike) Hutchinson to Marie Curie. Please remember to click yes for gift aid! Thank you for making a difference to those who need this vital service, and Thank you for being part of Mikes Legacy!

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.