On May the 28th I am going to participate in the ASDA 10k Nottingham run to raise money for a charity that has helped my dad. Several years ago my dad was unfortunate to suffer 2 strokes and left unable to speak.

It has been a hard road to recovery but thanks to the Men's Shed Omagh my dad A.K.A Jack O'Wheelie (his adopted Irish name) has made a huge impact in the local community, but more importantly has enabled his true calling in helping others. This has aided his own personal recovery tremendously.

We are all very proud of him and enjoy hearing about his recent projects. In March this year, Dad stood up in front of a crowd of over 200 people at the Housing Executives Community Conference, where he credited the men's shed with aiding his journey to recovery. I heard first hand from Ernie, my dad's good friend, and a great bloke may I add, that there was not a dry eye in the room. It really is a story of how the community can help you in times of need. As such, the men's shed won a commendation for help in the community.

My run in May is just a way of saying thank you on our behalf and I hope you can spare a few pounds to put a smile on the faces of these men, who all have good stories to tell and hopefully many more in the future.