Wexford woman hits the streets for mini marathon to mark milestone birthday of child that keeps defying the odds
On Sunday, June 1, Sarah Dowling, Niamh Davis and Sinéad Burns will lace up their runners and hit the streets of Dublin for the VHI Women's Mini Marathon, running 10km in support of a special little boy and the charity that's helped his family every step of the way.
Speaking ahead of the mini marathon, Niamh said, 'We are so proud of Eilish and her family and really want to push ourselves to give back to Jack and Jill. Matthew has continued to defy the odds and given the nature of his condition we know how important it is to the Begley's to celebrate his birthday every month. So, as he approaches his 24 month birthday we would love to mark that milestone by reaching a fundraising target of €2,400.'
Matthew Begley, aged 22 months, lives in Gorey with his mum Eilish, dad John, and big brother Patrick. Born with a rare and complex heart condition, Matthew has no pulmonary artery and lives with a life-limiting diagnosis.
Against all odds, he continues to amaze everyone with his strength, love of the outdoors, and beautiful smile. Since his birth the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation has provided vital in-home nursing support to Matthew.
Sarah, a nurse from Waterford and a long-time friend of Eilish, has seen first-hand just how much the Jack and Jill Foundation means to the Begley family. Wanting to do something meaningful, she rallied her friends Niamh and Sinéad who are also friends with Eilish to join her in running the mini marathon.
Matthew's mum Eilish will also take part in the mini marathon this year alongside her friends, in solidarity for the support her family has received. 'Every moment with Matthew is precious. Jack and Jill give us the gift of time at home together. Taking part in this run is my way of saying thank you—and celebrating how far we've come.'
The Jack and Jill Children's Foundation stepped in when Matthew was just ten days old, making it possible for him to come home from hospital and spend time with his family. Since then, their dedicated nursing support has allowed Eilish and John to care for Matthew at home while also meeting the needs of big brother Patrick.
Running the VHI Women's Mini Marathon is more than a fitness goal for this group, it's a show of friendship, support and community spirit. They're running for Matthew, for Eilish and over 430 families just like the Begleys across Ireland who are supported by the Jack and Jill Foundation.
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