INTERVIEW: Heroic amputee takes on 100-mile Morecambe Promenade challenge

Tuesday, 20 May 2025 15:27

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Mark Mulryan during his 100 mile walk along Morecambe Promenade. Photo credit: Janet Packham.

An inspirational dad from Morecambe who had his leg amputated is taking on a month-long challenge for breast cancer research after his wife was diagnosed with the disease.

Mark Mulryan is walking 100 miles this month - a few miles a day along Morecambe Promenade on his prosthetic leg - to raise money for Breast Cancer Now.

Mark, who is ex-Army and a former police officer, has received huge support from local people while on his daily walks.

The charity walk comes after a challenging 15 months for him, his wife Tracey and their family.

"About 15 months ago I had to have my right leg amputated above the knee due to a medical incident that is still ongoing," said Mark.

"I've had to retire from Lancashire Constrabulary where I was employed as a detention officer.

"It's been a very tough 15-16 months not only dealing with the challenges of being an amputee, but also I was diagnosed with having a mass on my pancreas. Fortunately it wasn't cancerous but it was decided that the best option would be to have the pancreas removed fully, which basically rendered me a Type 1 diabetic which is a challenge in itself.

"We seem to have been facing a lot of these challenges, and with Tracey's diagnosis it was the last thing we expected really."

Tracey said: "I found the lumps in my breast and went to the GP straightaway, and I was referred to the oncology department and they dealt with it really quickly.

"I was diagnosed on March 12 and I've started my treatment already, and it seems to be going well."

LISTEN to Beyond Radio's Ross Chapman talking to Mark and Tracey Mulryan

Mark and Tracey are pictured below on their visit to the Beyond Radio studio.

Mark's fundraising page has raised £2000 at time of writing and they have had huge support.

"It's been fantastic," said Tracey, who has joined her husband on some of the walks.

"People we don't even know are stopping Mark on the Prom and donating to him. Our two boys have been amazing, friends, neighbours, it's been great."

Mark said: "Without our friends and family we would never have got through this.

"The first day I went out, I didn't realise how hard it was going to be. I've never walked that far before on my prosthetic limb. I didn't know how it would stand up and if I was mentally prepared to do it. I decided two days before, it was a good idea to do it!

"But I've had people stop me while I'm walking, putting donations in the back of my rucksack, wishing me well. It's been phenomenal."

Mark's fundraising page says:

"This May, I will be walking 100 miles to raise money for Breast Cancer Now.

"Why? Because a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 10 minutes in the UK.

"Breast Cancer Now are here for anyone affected by breast cancer, the whole way through, providing support for today and hope for the future. Your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate £5 or £50.

"Every little bit helps, thank you for your support."

Mark said: "My last half mile walk will be starting at the Stone Jetty on the Prom at 5pm on June 1 and ending at the Clock Tower, where we will celebrate with a picnic on the grass and maybe a pint. Hopefully everyone wearing pink to show their support."

You can donate HERE.