Early start tomorrow for Omagh sun rise walkers

AS the sun slowly rises above the horizon in the early hours of tomorrow morning, hundreds of walkers will be making their way across Omagh in aid of mental health – and to remind themselves and others that it is always darkest before the dawn.

The event is Omagh St Enda’s much-loved ‘Sunrise Walk’, which returns for its second year, having become a standout feature in the local community calendar.

Participants are asked to arrive at O’Neill’s Healy Park on Saturday at the bright and early time of 4am before setting off for the 5k walking route at 4.15am.

Bringing hundreds together to support those affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, all funds on the day will be donated to depression charity Aware NI, and to raise awareness around suicide prevention, a crucial issue in the North where mental health challenges touch one in five people every year.

Sinéad Bradley of the Health and Wellbeing Committee has encouraged everyone to attend the powerful event.

“We’re doing this walk to support Aware NI, a charity that helps people living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and works to prevent suicide through support, education, and community outreach,” Sinead explained. “By walking together, we hope to shine a light on mental health, show support for those who are struggling, and help break the stigma that still surrounds these issues.

“Every step we take helps raise vital funds for AWARE NI’s support groups, education programs, suicide prevention work, and outreach across the Omagh area,” she added.

“Most importantly, it reminds people that they are not alone. There is always hope, and there is always support available.”

Omagh St Enda’s Sunrise Walk will take place on Saturday, May 10.

Walkers will gather from 4am before leaving Healy Park at 4.15am along the 5k route. However, participants who wish to walk a shorter route are welcome to walk laps of the Healy Park pitch.

All donations will go to Aware NI. There will be donation boxes in Caife 32.

Walkers are encouraged to bring along a torch, hi vis clothing and weather-permitting a rain coat – but none of these are necessary.

It is highly-advised to register now for the Sunrise Walk ahead of the event, although those that have not registered will not be turned away on the day.