Dedicated supporter Sara McBay will take on her first marathon, the Gent Marathon in Belgium, in memory of her loved ones, including her uncle Sean McCauley, who received specialist palliative care at home from Foyle Hospice.

Speaking ahead of the event, which is taking place on Sunday, 29^th of March this year, Sara explained: “I am looking forward to it and will be running alongside my brother Connor. I am not only taking on the challenge of running 26.2 miles for myself, but to give back to a charity that has helped my family so much over the years.”

Sara, who is no stranger to fundraising, previously completed the Waterside Half Marathon in 2024 in support of her local hospice. She said: “The Gent Marathon will be my biggest challenge yet, both physically and mentally. However, I feel very fortunate to be fit and healthy, unlike many patients receiving palliative care, and that perspective, along with the memory of my uncle, will continue to motivate me throughout the race.”

According to Sara, Foyle Hospice gave her uncle Sean a dignified death, by fulfilling his wish to die at home, surrounded by his family.

Sara continued: “I don’t believe that my uncle would have died the way he wanted if it wasn’t for Foyle Hospice. My family including my mum could not have coped without their amazing support.
She added: “There can sometimes be a perception that the hospice is mainly associated with older people, but I want to help raise awareness that younger people can play a vital role in supporting their local hospice too. It’s important that my generation helps secure the future of these services — whether it’s through fundraising, volunteering, or giving even a few hours of their time each week.”

Additionally, Foyle Hospice offers its ‘Healing Hearts’ bereavement counselling to children and young people, aged 4-18 years. This service is offered to those who have experienced the death of a loved one or whose parent or loved one have received a terminal or life-limiting diagnosis.

Sara highlighted the importance of the hospice’s services, saying: “Almost everyone you speak to has some connection to Foyle Hospice, whether it’s through the loss of a loved one or fundraising for such an important cause. The hospice has helped not only my family, but thousands of families in and around Derry City.

“Without their help, many families would not receive the support and care that they need for their loved ones.
Any donations are a massive help – you never know when you will need their services yourself.”

You can donate to Sara’s fundraiser by visiting: www.justgiving.com/page/sara-mcbay-2?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL