Ciara Murphy, a dedicated parent and carer, lost an incredible 7.5 stone within a year. Now, she is turning her weight loss success into a powerful fundraiser for the charities that have supported her son, Cillian.
Cillian, aged five, is described by Ciara as “the most delightful little boy you will ever meet.” Full of energy, he loves to run, jump, and climb despite living with multiple health challenges. He is one of 350,000 children diagnosed with Hyperinsulinism, a condition causing severe and recurring low blood sugar. Adding to this, Cillian has a brain injury along with autism and ADHD, necessitating extensive medical care, including numerous procedures that have tested the entire family.
Ciara’s role is demanding, as she provides round-the-clock care, administering tube feeds, medications, and blood sugar monitoring every four hours. In search of a way to stay fit and manage the physical demands of caregiving, the 38-year-old mum discovered a passion for boxing.
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“Boxing has really become a therapy for me,” Ciara shares. “It’s incredibly therapeutic and offers a unique enjoyment compared to other physical activities. I can’t run at all, but I can hit a boxing bag for hours.” She also praises the supportive nature of the boxing community, crediting Mad Dogs Boxing Store for equipping her with boxing boots that she now proudly wears.
On November 22, Ciara will take her dedication to the next level by stepping into the boxing ring at The New Bingley Hall. She aims to raise funds for two charities close to her heart: the Children’s Hyperinsulinism Charity and Zoe’s Place.
As a voluntary trustee of the Children’s Hyperinsulinism Charity, Ciara has found invaluable guidance, support, and a sense of community with families facing similar challenges. Zoe’s Place, a specialist hospice in Coventry, provides critical respite care for Cillian, offering one-on-one nursing that allows Ciara to rest and recharge.
“They’re just amazing,” she says of Zoe’s Place. “He’s 2-1 when he’s there, and knowing they support all his needs means my mind can rest 100%.”
Ciara has set herself an ambitious fundraising target of £3,500 to support these two vital organizations. “Without those breaks and respite services, I wouldn’t be able to keep going,” she explains. “I just want to give back. The children who attend these charities are incredibly brave, fighting for their lives every day. If I can bring just a bit of their spirit into the ring with me, I’ll be so proud.”