Veteran marathon runner aims big for HSA

(CNS): One of Cayman’s veteran long distance runners will be competing in the Cayman Islands Marathon this December hoping to raise cash to upgrade and create a fully equipped, state of the art chemotherapy unit for the HSA which will serve all cancer patients in the Cayman Islands. Derek Haines will be competing in the islands annual 26 plus mile run on 2nd December to raise as much as he can for the planned facility. Although costs for the whole project have yet to be finalised the fit out will include four infusion chairs and medical equipment which Haines hopes to cover.

The facility when completed will allow local cancer sufferers to receive treatment on island lessening the need to travel and having the bonus of being close to the support of family and friends.

"Many of us have friends and family who have suffered from this potentially killer disease and I believe it is a very worthwhile and important project for the Cayman Islands," Haines who will be approaching local companies for help said.

A company that invests $5,000 will have a plaque prominently displayed at the facility and so far DART, Ernst and Young, ESSO, HSBC Foundation, Ogier, P.W.C. and the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman have agreed to support.

For each pledge of $25 individual sponsors can enter a contest guessing Haines finishing time with the closest winning 6 bottles of champagne.

In the past two Cayman marathons alone Haines raised over CI$100,000 which have been used to  purchase a bus for Special Olympics, a vehicle for Cayman Hospice and the rest going towards Rugby development.

"I am a member of Rotary and have enjoyed the full support of the membership over the years in this annual event,” Haines said. “The bottom line is that I am running anyway so if I can raise a few dollars for a really good cause that is both a bonus and the motivation to ensure I finish. I am having to work hard on the sponsorship though as the fit out will not be cheap."

Haines who turns 64 in October will be trying to win the over 60's trophy for the fourth successive year. He clocks up between 50 to 60 miles each week by running to and from his home on South Sound to his work at Camana Bay; plus longer runs at the weekends.

He can be contacted at derek.haines@dartcayman.com