Climb in memory of loving wife and mum

The husband of a young mother who died from cancer just three months ago is leading a charity mountain climb to keep his wife's memory alive and raise money for a cancer charity.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Aug 2016, 06:10 GMT
Barry Williamson along with his two children and some of those who will join him on his mountain challenge. INPT36-002Barry Williamson along with his two children and some of those who will join him on his mountain challenge. INPT36-002
Barry Williamson along with his two children and some of those who will join him on his mountain challenge. INPT36-002

Barry Williamson, from Tandragee, along with his brothers Lee and Paul, cousin Mark and six friends are aiming to climb the four highest peaks in the UK - Ben Nevis, Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Slieve Donard - in just 48 hours.

Barry’s wife Alison was diagnosed with a rare type of blood cancer at the end of last summer and despite undergoing a stem cell transplant and various other treatments died on May 14 this year, aged just 31, surrounded by her family.

Her husband said the climb, which will take place in October, will be a “massive challenge” but that “Alison will be very much with us in spirit”.

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Money raised will go to Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI, a charity close to Alison’s heart and the only one in the province solely dedicated to fighting blood cancers.

Barry has described his wife as his “best friend” and “a perfect mummy” who loved life and made the most of every moment of it.

Alison, who was mum to Mya (11) and Rhys (7), worked as a classroom assistant at Tandragee Primary School.

Added Barry, “She spent a long time in three different hospitals and faced having to take 53 tablets and four litres of water a day.

“It was for her a horrendous and arduous journey of sickness, pain and suffering but Alison was prepared to undergo any sort of treatment available that would give her the opportunity of having more time with her family.

“She never complained or worried about herself. Even on her darkest days, she could still manage to smile and give you a thumbs-up.”

The rector, Canon Shane Forster said, “Alison was the most amazing and inspirational young woman who faced her illness with faith and determination. Alison was always positive and full of fun and never gave up in her battle with her illness.”

Her family is also holding A Night at the Races at Portadown Rugby Club on September 10, starting at 8pm.

The other men taking part in the climb are Jason Ferry, Ryan Ferry, Lester Weir, David Sharkey and Mark Moore.

Anyone who would like more information about the challenge should go to www.justgiving4in48 or send an email to [email protected].

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