Aisling Fiuza is an extraordinary 18 year old girl from Clonmel who has set her sights on completing the Solas Centre South East Run for Life on Sunday, October 13th.
Her knowledge of the Solas Centre and the cancer services it provides comes from her dad, who has connections with the support centre.
According to Aisling, in an interview with Beat 102-103’s Gail Conway, she has always been amazed by the positivity at the Solas Centre. “From the stories I have heard from people who use the services at the centre there is inspiration and hope in all of them. You can only be amazed when you hear about how strong those affected by cancer are and how they cope so positively.”
“Everybody has been affected by cancer and I’ve learned that support is crucial to help anyone through it…the support of family, friends and places like the Solas Centre seem to make it easier to cope.”
Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. That is why the organisers are hoping to garner the support of at least 2,000 participants to take part in aid of the Solas Centre.
Last year, Aisling took part in the 10 mile race and, with her school, raised over €750 for the Solas Centre. “The atmosphere on the day was amazing and really influenced my decision to do the race again this year. In fact, you couldn’t stop me, even if you tried”, said Aisling.
Aisling is happy to offer advice to anyone who is considering taking part in this October’s Run for Life. “The ten mile run is not too bad. I’m fairly active anyway, but this year I have been training more actively than ever. I’d suggest anyone interested in taking part should keep motivated, stick with it, don’t give up and keep the end goal in sight. It will be worth it in the end!”
According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, the success of the Solas Centre is down to the generosity and support of people like Aisling.
“Aisling, through her Dad’s involvement in the Solas Centre, is very aware of the breadth of services we provide to those affected by cancer in the South East. We will continue to promote the development of the region’s cancer support services, by rolling out a series of health and education initiatives, client programmes, art programmes, support groups, and counselling for cancer patients and their families. This can only be done with the continuing support of those in Tipperary and the South East.”
The Solas Centre is delighted to welcome on board this year’s new race sponsors, Eishtec and acknowledge the continuing support of Beat 102-103.
If you want to take part in this year’s South East Run For Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 13th, sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford or you can visit www.solascentre.ie, Beat 102 103 studios and AIB branches.
For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page.