Throughout October, Chris Connolly (@GetBetterWithChris) has been hosting 5km runs in a different county each day in aid of mental health charity Shannon’s Hopeline.
His ‘32 Counties in 32 Days’ challenge will finish at Reuben Walk in Dublin 8 on Friday, November 1, where he will be joined by 32 special guests, including The Coronas’ Danny O’Reilly, comedian Darren Conway, and Marty Guilfoyle.
Shannon’s Hopeline was established by sisters Sandra and Lisa Kelleher in memory of Sandra’s daughter, who tragically died by suicide at the tender age of 13.
Shannon was described as a compassionate and sensitive young girl with a vibrant sense of humour, and her death came as a deep shock to her family and the entire community.
Chris, a recovering addict and alcoholic, found a new lease of life through exercising as it keeps him focused and gives him the chance to meet some amazing people.
Shannon’s Hopeline is a very important charity to him because they help young people who struggle with their mental health, something Chris has personal experience of.
“I was once somebody who struggled with my mental health and addiction. It wasn’t until I started exercising that I got a second chance,” he told the Irish Independent.
“I want to show people that it’s possible to get a way out. The community aspect makes me feel that I’m not alone, in my life. I did spend time around the wrong people, I always felt anxious, and I felt that I wasn’t understood.”
Speaking about the people he has met during the challenge, Chris hailed the sense of community created by each run.
“We’ve had the bad weather, the wind, the cold, it’s pitch black, but people are still coming out. They understand what we’re trying to do,” he said.
“Maybe they relate to us or know somebody is struggling. If one person joins, it paves the way for more people to do the same.
“It’s about connecting. Maybe someone out with us might have lost somebody, and if they need someone to talk to, we’re there.
“A lot of people who are struggling can feel like there’s no way out. We want to show people that a new way of life can be found through exercise, fitness and community.
“That’s why we’re taking on this challenge,” he added.
Chris is now three and a half years sober. By sharing his own story, he has fostered a community and demonstrated there is hope for those who are struggling with addiction and their mental health.
The money raised from these events will go towards counselling services and wellness programmes for young people who are struggling with their mental health.
To raise further funds, Chris will be raffling off the 32 Counties in 32 Days campervan at the end of the challenge.
