A LEADING oncologist who used cycling as part of his recovery after his own cancer diagnosis is calling on people to join him in a charity bike challenge.
No stranger to cycling, Dr Seamus McAleer has completed the Camino de Santiago in Spain and rode the length of Ireland helping to raise more than £200,000 for the Friends of the Cancer Centre.
But this year, Dr McAleer has personal motivation for supporting the charity, following his own cancer diagnosis. He used cycling as part of his recovery post-surgery and is now getting back in the saddle for a cause close to his heart.
He will take part in Friends of the Cancer Centre's Newry Canal cycle on August 21, which will see participants take on a 20 or 40 mile route along the winding towpath.
"I have a very close affiliation with Friends of the Cancer Centre and have been involved in its work for over 35 years, most recently as a trustee," he said.
"I see a lot of the benefits of the charity in my day-to-day work, including the funding of additional staff, vital equipment and patient comforts.
"It is clear to me that the charity is very important in the lives of our cancer patients and that's why I feel it's very important to help generate funds, as my patients and many others rely on the charity's work every day.
"I also have a very personal connection to the charity.
"Last year, I found myself with some symptoms and just before Covid-19 and lockdown, I had an operation for a bowel tumour.
"That went very well and I haven't needed any extra treatment. I hope that I am cured, but this is an important message for everyone.
"I would urge anyone who is experiencing symptoms or notices a change in their health, to contact their GP. If you are called for routine bowel or breast screening, please take the tests."
Friends of the Cancer Centre works to enhance the quality of patient care and support through its life-changing and life-saving work including funding additional nurses, supporting local research and providing practical support, such as financial grants.
It relies entirely on the generosity of the local community and all money donated stays in Northern Ireland.
Dr McAleer is calling on the local community to join him in the cycle challenge.
"I have always loved cycling and it was also a really important part of my own recovery post-surgery," he added.
"I'm always keen to get back on my bike so this August, I'm taking part in the charity's Newry Canal Cycle and I am inviting people to join me, to raise money for Friends of the Cancer Centre and have a whale of a time."
For information, please visit www.friendsofthecancercentre.com or call (028) 9069 9393.
