LOCAL residents who are set to run the Belfast Marathon in memory of the late Eimir Martin and John Murphy are going to “carry their spirit, their laughter and their love” during the event.
A team of 18 people from Lisnaskea will take part in the Belfast Marathon on Sunday, May 4, to raise money for a local charity, in memory of the much-loved residents who passed away recently.
The late Eimir Martin, a talented footballer for Lisnaskea and Fermanagh and a respected midwife, passed away in November 2023, aged 35, following a long battle with illness.
Her brother-in-law, John Murphy, a well-known Fermanagh GAA referee and member of the Derrygonnelly Harps club, passed away on December 31 2024, aged 41 years old.
Led by John’s wife and Eimir’s sister, Aine, a number of the Fermanagh community will now take on the Belfast Marathon, with money raised going to the Friends of the Cancer Centre charity.
“It has been an incredibly difficult time for us as a family, but we are determined to do something positive in their memory,” Ms Murphy said, ahead of the 26.2 mile marathon next week.
“So in remembrance of Eimir [Martin], John [Murphy] and all the amazing friends and family we have lost to cancer, 18 of us are joining forces for the Belfast City Marathon.”
Ahead of the event, almost £10,000 has been raised for ‘Friends of the Cancer Centre’, which provides a range of support services to people living locally with cancer and their families.
Recalling that her sister always wanted to complete a marathon, Ms Murphy said that they’re “honoured to participate” in the event, which will attract thousands of people to Belfast.
“We are therefore honoured to participate and to grant one of her [Eimir Martin] wishes as family and friends. We will carry their spirit, their laughter, and their love with us every mile,” she said.
“The marathon is about more than just running, it’s about making a difference. To help those in need, we are raising money for Friends of the Cancer Centre, a cause that is dear to our hearts.
“We are aware of the care and support this amazing charity has provided us over the years, and we wish to return the favour because they’ve helped so many through their darkest moments.”
Spokesperson for ‘Friends of the Cancer Centre’, Geraldine Corrigan, welcomed the initiative.
“I’m sure it’s a huge comfort knowing so many people have Eimir and John in their minds. Their memory is being kept alive by local sports clubs, which were so important to them both,” she said.
“The team has already raised an incredible amount of money which will enable the charity to support so many other families who are currently facing a cancer diagnosis in Northern Ireland.”
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