Octogenarian for minimarathon

Betty Hand (83) from Blanchardstown will be taking part in the VHI Women’s Mini-Marathon supporting the ‘Walk in My Shoes’ campaign. This will be Betty’s 33rd time to take part in the annual race.

Betty said: “I’m delighted to be participating in the mini-marathon again for Walk in My Shoes. Mental Health is so important and I’m looking forward to taking part for what will be my 33rd time.”

Inspired by a 16 year-old in St Patrick’s University Hospital who wished his friends could ‘walk in his shoes’ to understand his mental illness, ‘Walk in My Shoes’ raises funds to provide mental health support, information and services to communities throughout Ireland.

Over 100 ladies will let their feet do the talking by taking part in the mini-marathon this Bank Holiday Monday to support Walk in My Shoes.

Supporters will be running to stamp out stigma surrounding Mental Health and to raise awareness and much needed funds.

Jeanette O’ Reilly, ‘Walk in My Shoes’ fundraiser said: “This is a great opportunity to have a fun day and take part in a really special event. We are hoping our supporters will share pictures and words of support through social media using #walkinmyshoes and in doing so, encourage others to show their support while raising awareness and funds for this very worthy cause.”

Celebrity Mum and mental health advocate Alison Canavan will lead a team of runners wearing neon yellow t-shirts to highlight mental health awareness.

After the race, supporters will join the Walk in My Shoes team in the VHI Reunion Village, in the Walk in My Shoes very own party tent with lots of surprises in store.

How you can support Walk in My Shoes

Host a funky shoe day in work, school, or in your local communitySnap your shoes and share online through #walkinmyshoesTEXT ‘ Shoes’ to57802 to donate €2

Get involved/make a donation, visit www.walkinmyshoes.ie or find us @walkinmyshoes or #walkinmyshoes