Charity walk in memory of Martin McGuinness launched

» Michael McMonagle

“We are hoping as many people as possible will get involved and register online to take part. We want to raise awareness about amyloidosis and all proceeds will go to the NW Cancer Centre at Altnagelvin Hospital, which again is something very much associated with my father. - Fiachra McGuinness

 The family of the late Martin McGuinness were joined by Sinn Féin President-elect, Mary Lou McDonald to launch a charity fundraising event, 'The Chieftain's Walk,' in his memory. 

The walk, which will take place on March 25th, will go from Glenowen in Derry to An Grianán Fort in Donegal, and the launch took place at the historic fort yesterday afternoon. 

'The Chieftain's Walk' will raise funds for the North West Cancer Centre at Altnagelvin and will also raise awareness of amyloidosis. 

Speaking at the launch, Mary Lou McDonald said it was fitting the walk was launched at Grianán, a place the late Martin McGuinness often visited with his dog, Buttons. 

"We really wanted to make this the very special occasion that it should be and we want to encourage people to register for the walk and be part of this very, very special event in memory of the very special person and outstanding human being and one of the great leaders, not just of Irish republicanism and nationalism, but one of the great Irish patriots of all time, a son of the Bogside, Martin McGuinness," she said. 

Fiachra McGuinness, son of the late Martin McGuinness, encouraged as many people as possible to register for the walk. 

“We are hoping as many people as possible will get involved and register online to take part. We want to raise  awareness about amyloidosis and all proceeds will go to the NW Cancer Centre at Altnagelvin Hospital, which again is something very much associated with my father. He was a driving force behind ensuring the Centre was established in the first place and it will be fitting if his legacy can help support the fantastic service being provided there," he said. 

Every registered participant in The Chieftains Walk will receive a bespoke commemorative medal. Entry fee is £10 and you can register via the Chieftains Walk Facebook page or online at https://register.primoevents.com/ps/event/TheMartinMcGuinnessChieftainsWalk