Running the Belfast Marathon Relay in Memory of our friend Matthew Starkey This run is for Matthew — a colleague, a friend, and someone who left a lasting mark on all of us. This year, four of my colleagues and I will be taking part in the Belfast Marathon Relay. We’re running in memory of our much-loved friend and colleague, Matthew Starkey, who sadly passed away last year after bravely battling a rare form of spinal cancer, with only around 200 cases ever reported. Matthew was an incredible person to work with and to know — someone who brought positivity, humour, and kindness to everyone around him. He is deeply missed by all of us. By taking part in the Belfast Marathon Relay, we want to honour Matthew’s memory in a way that reflects the strength and determination he showed throughout his battle. We hope to honour Matthew’s memory while raising funds for Charis Cancer Charity, an organisation that supports individuals and families affected by cancer. The work they do provides vital help, care, and hope to people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Charis Cancer Charity continue their important work supporting those who need it most. Thank you so much for your support, encouragement, and generosity. It truly means a lot to us as we run in Matthew’s memory. 🏃‍♂️💙 If you’d like to help even more, please share this page with your friends and family! You can use the social sharing buttons below to spread the word on Facebook, Twitter, or WhatsApp. Together, we can make this marathon count for something truly special. Thank you again for your support!

About Charis Cancer Care

Charis Cancer Care is here to ensure no one in Northern Ireland faces cancer alone. offering a sanctuary of support through a range of therapeutic services. Located in rural Mid-Ulster, our award winning centre has been providing essential support since 2010, having assisted more than 15,000 people. Annually, we deliver approximately 8,000 services to around 1,000 individuals from across NI, establishing ourselves as one of the leading charitable providers of counselling and complementary therapies for cancer patients. Our services are free and cater to anyone over 18 affected by cancer, including families, and those grieving a loss due to cancer. These include: Counselling: Offered in-person or virtually by qualified professionals. Complementary therapies: Such as massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, and Emmett Technique. Yoga and mindfulness sessions: To aid relaxation and mental well-being. Healthy eating programs Benefits and Financial advice and support

About Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon 2026 Fundraising Campaign

Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon – Be part of something bigger than the finish line.
Each year, thousands come together at the Belfast City Marathon to run and relay with one shared mission: to help make a difference. Whether you're taking on the full 26.2 miles, a relay leg or supporting from the sidelines, every step fuels a cause that matters.
This is your chance to champion the charity closest to your heart—local or national, big or small. From life-saving research and community outreach to mental health, education, and beyond, your fundraising helps change lives!
Together, let’s go the distance—for hope, for impact, and for every cause that deserves to be heard.
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