Doncaster charity launched to fund research into rare lung cancer

Research ALK +ve kicked off fundraising with a bang with an 82-mile cycle challenge from Sprotbrough to Howden and back again.

The charity has been set up to fund research into anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positive lung cancer. ALK positive is a rare type of lung cancer that typically affects younger, female non-smokers and is on the increase worldwide.

The cycle team was made up of 11 cyclists from Sprotbrough and Leigh-on-Sea in Essex. They were joined virtually by two more Sprotbrough-based cyclists who completed the challenge on static bikes at home as they had to quarantine.

Charity trustee and cyclist Aileen Murgatroyd said: “We are delighted to have officially launched Research ALK+ve and would like to say thank you to everyone that has sponsored us so far. We hope to make this cycle challenge an annual event and have lots more fundraising activities in the pipeline; as a charity, we are committed to making a real difference to research funds into ALK positive.”

All funds raised by the cycle challenge will help the charity with their vital work supporting research to improve care and treatment into ALK positive.

Speaking about the charity cycle ride Aileen Murgatroyd added: “It was a challenging day - some of our party took a wrong turn after Howden, adding five miles to the total! However, we caught up towards the end of the challenge and it was so nice to all arrive back at the same time.”

Research ALK+ve has lots of fundraising activities planned, including an online shop for their new website, a raffle during Lung Cancer Awareness Month and a charity dining event.

Lots more sports activities are also in the works including a cricket match, a golf day, a walking challenge and a sky dive.

People wanting to support the charity can also donate at Murgatroyd Opticians, which has three practices in the area, via their charity tubs.

The practices will also be hosting eyewear fashion shows to raise money as soon as coronavirus restrictions are lifted. Visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/aileen-murgatroyd