Aine runs Omagh half marathon for charity that ‘saved her life’

A LOCAL runner has raised over £3,000 for the Omagh-based mental health charity Support 2gether by completing the Omagh Half Marathon at the weekend – a challenge she took on to give back to the group she says ‘saved her life’.

Aine Donnelly from Dromore credited Support 2gether for helping her through the darkest of times during her most recent pregnancy. The charity, based in Omagh Community House, supports mothers experiencing antenatal and postnatal depression and anxiety.

The mother-of-four said, “During my most recent pregnancy I found it really hard. My son had an accident just before I knew I was pregnant, and I found the pregnancy really tough.

“I found out about Support 2gether, and they were amazing.

“The support they gave me and my family was incredible, and I can never thank them enough – they saved my life.

“I started off just talking over the phone with some of the ladies who work with the charity, and they were fantastic. I also started going into the group, and now my baby is 14-months-old and we are doing great. Support 2gether has helped me every step of the way.”

The charity provides face-to-face and online support, including group gatherings in Omagh and Clogher.

Many of the team have lived experience of perinatal mental illness and offer support grounded in empathy and understanding.

Aine took on the half marathon as part of Support 2gether’s new ‘Run for Mums’ initiative, which encourages mothers to take part in running challenges to raise funds for the charity. It is funded through a combination of National Lottery support and public donations.

An experienced runner and member of Dromore Runners, Aine said the initiative was the perfect fit.

“I love running – it’s my escape from the everyday world. When I heard about ‘Run for Mums’, I knew it was the perfect way to raise money for Support 2gether.

“I’m not the biggest fan of half marathons and have only done one before, but I’ve completed a number of 10k and 5k races. I would encourage any mums out there to give running a go. It’s a fantastic pastime that doesn’t cost much and gives you a great sense of escape.”

Aine’s fundraiser remains open on the Support 2gether website: www.support2gether.com.