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Matthew Monaghan from Phaidon International races for Cystic Fibrosis

Why am I doing this race?

Back in 1992, a new-born Alistair Beament was brought into this world. Within 5 weeks he had been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis and from then on it was clear that Ali would have a different life to those around him. But Ali did not see it this way. 

Cystic Fibrosis is a rare life-shortening genetic disease for which there is no known cure. Affecting over 10,000 people in the UK alone it causes a multitude of health complications from a young age affecting the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas and other organs. A CF sufferer will spend on average 2-3 hours each day on treatments and therapies, and up to 20 days in hospital each year. 

In spite of all of this Ali was an incredibly lively and adventurous child who grew to be the exact same as an adult. He traveled widely, gained a B.A. Degree and took part in many of the things other teenagers did and more.

A treasured friend, brother, and son, Ali was an inspiration to many who showed that life is to be lived and it is important to create experiences to remember.

Ali sadly passed away in 2014 and Ali’s Gift was founded by his family in his memory. This charity was set up to support other young people with cystic fibrosis to make the most of every bit of life and live it to the full, creating their own experiences and memories.

The goal right now is to give young CF sufferers the freedom to experience the world, study, follow their passions, overcome challenges and create lifelong memories. As CF progresses, everyday activities become increasingly difficult. Ali’s Gift strongly believes that sufferers deserve a helping hand and a pat on the back.

So what am I doing to earn your sponsorship?

I am completing 30 races in 52 weeks including a Half Ironman Triathlon on June 3rd, 2018. The challenge began on my 29th birthday on September 11th, 2017 and will end on my 30th birthday in September 2018 – therefore it is aptly named, “30 before 30.”

All 30 are official races and a blend of 10km races, Half Marathons, Marathons, Triathlons, Duathlons and the Half Ironman triathlon. This will equate to doing 2 races per month for 6 months, and 3 races per month for the other 6. Not being a natural swimmer, the Half Ironman will be a particular challenge. The distances being a 1.2mile swim, 66mile cycle followed by a 13.1mile run - in under 8 hours.

This will be a complex challenge that will not only test my physical endurance but also my mental strength to keep going, not only with the events but also getting out and training every week for an entire year.

Any donations are most welcome and go a long way to helping someone create memories and experiences to cherish. 

To find out more about the charity please visit www.alisgift.com or to donate please go to www.justgiving.com/matthew-monaghan1/ 

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About Us

Phaidon International is the parent company of five leading specialist recruitment agencies. For more than 15 years, we have given clients and candidates the peace of mind that the recruitment process is in expert hands. Out continual investment in best-in-class technologies and consultant training enables us to recruit with speed, precision and accuracy. Today, we provide contingency, retained search and project-based contract recruitment across 11 offices in 6 countries. Contact us today to learn more about the company and the opportunities we offer.