Doggy Dash for Life

Date published: 14 April 2014

The fourth Doggy Dash for Life event at Hollingworth Lake raised money for Cancer Research UK yesterday (Sunday 13 April).

The event, which was organised by Kath O’Donnell and her husband Andy, saw over 100 people walk around the Lake with their dogs.

Kath said: “It was fantastic. It is just getting bigger and bigger every year and this was certainly the biggest one we have done to date.”

So far the event has raised £1,600 for cancer Research with sponsorship still coming in. “We are very pleased with that and to say we still have more to come in is brilliant” said Kath.

This year’s event also included a mascot. Archie, a rescue dog from Manchester Dog homes was brought to the event by Angela Paskin. Archie, who is owned by Angela’s daughter Lisa, is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

Kath said: “He has had a tumour removed and is now undergoing chemotherapy treatment. They are hoping that he will be given the all clear by June. But it just shows you that this is a disease that affects our animals as well.”

Kath and Andy started fundraising for cancer Research in 2006. In 2004 Andy was diagnosed with testicular cancer and after his treatment and after he was cleared of the cancer, the couple decided to start fundraising.

“Our first event was a golf event which we are still holding. That is being held again this year on 6 June,” said Kath.

Since they started fundraising, the couple have raised over £40,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Kath is now working on getting the event rolled out across the country. She said: “We had a dog warden from Salford say that he wanted to do the event and I know there is one taking place in Huddersfield which is the second one for them.”

After the success of this year’s event, Kath is sure that the event will continue. Kath added: “It will definitely be held again next year, I’m sure of that. I do have to thank our main sponsors, Hird and Partners Veterinary Group and Ad Manum consultants because they are a big help.”

Doggy Dash For Life at Hollingworth Lake - 13 April 2014.