Omagh woman ‘steps’ up for MS

AN Omagh woman, whose partner was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis more than 20 years ago, has decided to ‘step’ up to a fitness challenge to help raise money for a charity that supports those living with the condition.

With her sneakers at the ready and willpower in abundance, Sara Wilson will be walking at least 10,000 steps per day throughout the whole month of August in aid of ‘Multiple Sclerosis Ireland’ – and this is no small task for the local mother, as she suffers from pains in her feet and in her knees.

However, Sara, who is the owner of Centre Stage Theatre Company, Omagh, is determined to not only do this challenge – but to smash it!

“Some may say that 10,000 steps a day is ‘not much of a challenge’, and that we should be aiming for that every day,” Sara said. “For me, it definitely is a challenge.

“I have suffered from very bad feet from a young age. And since lockdown, they have become a lot worse, and I’ve had trouble with my knees, so walking long distances can be a struggle.

“Recently, I have only been doing, perhaps, 1,000 steps a day – and on the days where things are harder, I tear through the pain.

“But I am so determined to do this challenge, and get active again. It is for something, and someone, close to my heart.”

Sara began her tough feat on August 1.

“Walking is something that we take for granted,” Sara said. “But this is not always easy or possible for some. My partner has had MS the last 22 years. He, like many others with the condition, struggles with mobility issues.

“I’m ‘stepping out’ for him,” she said. “To hit my targets, I will be taking longer walks to the shop with my son, Jack, I will be dancing, and ascending and descending the stairs.

“Thank you to everyone who has donated so far to my cause,” Sara added. “Please share the word, and invite your friends to the fundraiser. Every little bit helps.”

Multiple Sclerosis Ireland enables and empowers people affected by MS to live the life of their choice to their fullest potential. The charity further offers information, vital services and support to the MS community, and provides the only national therapy centre for people with the condition in Ireland.

Follow Sara Wilson’s Facebook page to donate to her cause, and keep up-to-date with her progress.