I first started running thanks to the encouragement of my wonderful flatmate Úna, who was an avid runner. She was funny, intelligent, and absolutely loved trashy reality tv.

She was also an alcoholic. She spent a long time battling her addiction, but tragically on April 20th 2025, at the age of 33, her heart gave out as a result of the damage the addiction had done to her body.

It’s hard to put into words how much this experience has changed me, but I am so incredibly proud of her and hard she fought.

In October, I am running my first ever half marathon to raise awareness for the damage that alcohol can do when not consumed in moderation, or when consumed for the wrong reasons.

Nobody should feel ashamed or scared to ask for help - few things in this world are as hard as battling your own mind, and those doing so deserve more support.

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