Kildare man to run his first marathon in aid of breast cancer research
Joe Smartt will be participating in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2025
A man living in County Kildare is preparing to run his first-ever marathon in aid of breast cancer research.
Joe Smartt of Newbridge will be participating in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2025 later this year in order to raise funds for the research.
Explaining his reason for joining the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2025, Joe said on his official Give2You. / Eventmaster.ie page: "I am running in the Dublin marathon to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute in Ireland to help advance vital research into the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.
"Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer to a future where no family has to face this disease alone.
"Supporting breast cancer research is something I truly believe in and your support means the world."
"Please donate if you can and share the page to help spread the word."
He concluded: "Together, we can make a real difference."
Joe's fundraiser has a €1,500 goal and can be accessed here.
FACTS ABOUT BREAST CANCER
According to the Irish Cancer Society, breast cancer is when cells in your breast change and grow in an abnormal way.
A group of these cancer cells can proceed to form a tumour.
Each year in Ireland, almost 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer.
This form of cancer is more common in women over 50, but it can affect younger women too.
In terms of screening for breast cancer, BreastCheck is the name of the national breast screening programme.
This service offers free breast screening to women, transgender, intersex and non-binary people age 50 to 69.
It should be noted that one must be living in Ireland and have a PPS number to avail of this service.
Anyone interested in learning more about breast cancer can visit https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information/cancer-types/breast-cancer.