Irish peacekeepers ‘Run for Life’ on Lebanon duty

A local cancer charity fundraiser took on an international feel when Irish Defence Force troops raised awareness of the cause while on peacekeeping duties in the Lebanon.

More than 2,000 took part in the Solas Cancer Support Centre Run and Walk for Life in Waterford City recently.

But, inspired by events at home in the South-East, Defence Force members who are part of the deployed 53rd Infantry Group to South Lebanon, decided to stage their own Run for Life overseas.

The run was organised by Ferrybank native Private Tommy Carew, whose aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer more than two years ago. She availed of the Solas Cancer Support Centre services and made a good recovery.

Pte Carew was “overwhelmed” by the interest in the run from his colleagues. “The Solas Cancer Support Centre has given so much to my family and I hope our efforts can give much-needed assistance to other families in the South-East. Also thanks to Lena and all at the RFL for their support throughout,” he said.

The run was centred around the main base in South Lebanon, east of a village called At Tiri, and saw nearly 200 competitors take part in temperatures of up to 28°C.

Speaking from South Lebanon, Lt Col Stephen Ryan commended Private Carew for his enthusiasm in organising the run.

“Events like this are a great distraction from overseas life and give soldiers perspective of the great work being done at home. We commend Solas Cancer Support Centre for the excellent work they do,” he said.

Their six-month tour of duty is due to end later this month. The unit is primarily drawn from James Stephens Barracks in Kilkenny.

The race raised approximately €2,000 for the Solas Cancer Support Centre.

According to Dr Brian Creedon, chair of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, the money raised will be used to enhance services for those affected by cancer, initiating services in Dungarvan and improving the range of service options. He said the South-East and Waterford can be “immensely proud” of making the Run and Walk for Life so successful.

Michael Garland, chair of the 2017 run, said it is an event they hope to build on in the future.