Fermanagh siblings set for marathon challenge

TWO Fermanagh sisters are set to compete in the Belfast Marathon in their bid to do “something special” to remember their late father and raise awareness around sudden cardiac death.
Michelle Smith and Breege Cassidy are preparing to take part in Belfast Marathon on Sunday, May 4, with proceeds raised going towards the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland.
The father, the late John Cassidy, died in 2015 following a cardiac arrest. Post-mortem results revealed the 59-year-old had a condition called Cardoimegaly, which results in an enlarged heart.
“Daddy was a healthy man, a big strong man who worked hard for his family,” Ms Smith said.
“It was a real eye-opener to people when he died so suddenly that everyone needs to be aware of their heart health. The saddest part is that all he ever wanted was to see his five children grow up.
“This heart condition robbed us of that. He didn’t get to see us get married and he didn’t have the chance to meet his grandchildren. Mammy and Daddy were inseparable so it was a huge shock.”
People across the county will take part in the Belfast Marathon to raise money for local groups.
The Derrylin sisters have already raised £6,000 for the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland and they’re hoping that the money will make a massive difference to the local community.
“I’m not a runner but what is getting me through the training is the generosity of the people who have donated,” explained Ms Smith, ahead of the Belfast Marathon.
“It’s been amazing to know we can do something to help fund research that improves treatment and finds cures for families living with inherited heart conditions.
“It has also brought up so many stories of Daddy, from colleagues of his and friends. It will be a challenge to complete the marathon but we will have a lot of support from family and friends.
“It will be lovely to use the event to celebrate together all the precious time we had with him and the memories we have.”