100-day running challenge to raise funds for dementia

A DROMORE man has taken on a 100-day running challenge to raise money for older people with dementia.

Having some extra time on his hands over the last four months, Barry Campbell took up a post as a care assistant at Age NI’s Meadowbank Residential Home in Omagh.

The 32-year-old had been furloughed from his job as manager of Dromore Sports Complex due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But he was aware Meadowbank could use the extra help as his mother, Rose, is a senior care assistant at the home, which provides support for 25 older people with dementia.

Mr Campbell, who has completed five marathons and 14 half marathons, said, “After experiencing first-hand all the amazing work that was taking place, I decided I would like to give something back to support the team and residents of Meadowbank.”

The Dromore man is now coming to the end of his 100-day running challenge.

So far, he has achieved an impressive 80 days completing 20 days running 5km, 20 days running five miles, 20 days running 10km and 20 days running five miles again.

Currently, he is going full circle finishing his final leg of 20 days of 5km.

Rosalind Cole, regional fundraising manager for Age NI, added, “We’d like to thank Barry for his amazing support.

“These funds will make such a huge difference to local older people, helping us to be there when they have no one else to turn to.”

Meadowbank was opened in 1998 and provides care and support for people living with dementia.

• To support Mr Campbell, visit his Justgiving page to donate: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Barry-Campbell1987.