To raise funds and awareness in the fight against the disease, Professor Chris Scott, Dean of Research for the Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Sciences at Queen’s is leading the ‘QUB-Fustle’ team in the #PedalThePeriphery2024, taking place 7th -9th June.
Starting from Titanic Slipways, this is an epic endurance relay event that will see teams cycle 480 miles in 48 hours around Northern Ireland (NI).
NI’s only charity working to improve the outcomes of pancreatic cancer, NIPANC promotes awareness of the cancer’s signs and symptoms, funds vital research and supports patients and their families.
This major fundraiser was brought to life in 2023 by powerhouse sisters Andrea Harrower and Cathy Booth, who undertook the 480 miles nonstop in 48 hours in memory of two loved ones who sadly died of pancreatic cancer.
Now an annual team fixture for NIPANC, this year a team of clinicians, researchers, and students from Queen’s have joined forces with Fustle Bikes, the charity’s official cycling partners, to ride in aid of the charity with the aim of raising £10k.
Chris said: “As we know, one in every two of us will be touched by cancer in our lifetime, so we are delighted to take part in this special event to support NI’s very own charity dedicated to this awful disease.
“Andrea’s husband tragically lost his life to the disease in 2022, with Cathy losing her lifelong friend to pancreatic cancer. Since then, these incredible sisters have raised over £100k in funds that goes towards vital research and creating awareness in over 80 countries worldwide.
“At Queen’s, we are committed to finding new ways to speed up diagnosis and develop better, kinder medications for pancreatic cancer. We are always incredibly humbled by people that support our research and are thrilled to show our appreciation by helping raise vital funds. We would be grateful to receive any contribution, big or small.”
The ‘QUB-Fustle’ team also includes Suneil Jain, Tim O’Brien, Alan Stitt, David Burke, Shaun Sharkey, Matthew Beggs and Adam Smyth.