MY TOP 10

MY

LUCY MCCUSKER

Action Cancer Corporate Fundraising Manager

1. What do you love most about your job?

The variety of people and organisations I get to work with and meet on a daily basis and the range of events I have created over the years. From organising afternoon teas, to strongest woman Big Bus pulls, I have so much pride in the job I do. I can genuinely see and hear the positive impact Action Cancer services makes to people’s lives, everyday.

2. What has been your career highlight to date?

There are many highlights and funny memories. The one that I will always remember with a giggle was persuading the late Gerry Anderson (BBC Radio Ulster Presenter and personality) in 2011 to take part in the NYC Marathon for Action Cancer, live on air. The minute he said ‘Yes’ the phones in the offi ce started going crazy with his listener fans wanting to come too! Travelling to NY with the other runners, Gerry Anderson and Mickey Bradley from the Undertones, was hilarious. The crack was ninety and Gerry ran about seven miles in total.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work?

With a husband who runs his own business and three children, I have little “me time” so most hobbies revolve around kids activities and a variety of sports, from showjumping to swimming. I recently went back to hockey at Dromore Ladies which I absolutely love! My husband and I revamped an old Rice horsebox and turned it into a Coff ee and Fizz Bar so that keeps me busy managing staff and stocking up on coff ee and buns for the weekends!

4. What is your daily routine?

This has changed with working from home throughout the pandemic but generally I’m up at 06:45, ready for the day ahead. The kids are dressed, fed and sorted for their school day, and then it’s off to the Action Cancer offi ce in Belfast.

5. Do you have a specifi c fi tness regime?

Yes – my husband and I decided we were super lazy at getting out to gym classes so we got a Personal Trainer called Donna to come to us at home to do HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes. We have been doing this for 18 months and it’s tough but rewarding! She does not ever take ‘no’ for an answer, so no excuses allowed. It’s just what we need in our busy lives.

6. Do you have any tips for staying positive?

Working at Action Cancer makes you very aware that there are a lot of people in NI going through a gruelling cancer diagnosis and journey, and who are possibly having a much, much worse day than me. All of us can get consumed by our own problems but without a doubt health is more important than anything. Life is short and I fully believe in living each day to the full – ensuring my family are happy keeps me happy. Work can be stressful but it’s important to keep the balance right and focus and prioritise what is most important. It’s easier said than done at times but helps keep things on track.

7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland?

If asked this question prior to Covid-19, I’d probably have answered ‘a night out in Belfast, followed by a hotel stay at The Merchant or Grand Central’ but now I’d say it’s our stunning scenery. There is nowhere better to be than the North Coast on a sunny day with lots of family and friends around and a prosecco in hand.

8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by?

You never really learn anything from hearing yourself speak! I ask a lot of questions and love hearing about others people’s lives and families. Another favourite motto is: ‘You don’t get buried with your wallet in your back pocket!’ My pet hate is penny-pinchers.

9. Who has been your biggest infl uence?

My mum. She passed away very quickly from a late-diagnosed cancer. She was a fantastic role model: hardworking, forward-thinking, social and wise. I miss her so much and would have loved my children to have known her.

10. FAVOURITE

Movie: Pretty Woman for old times sake and more recently Wonder Band/Musician: Oasis

Book: Anything by Penny Vincenzi Restaurant: Wine & Brine Moira

Holiday Destination: Skiing with family, or a city break Christmas shopping with the girls. Drink: Prosecco Meal: Sunday Roast cooked by somebody other than me!