Running 260k in 26 days for charity

BERNADETTE Drury is halfway through running 260kms in 26 days for her 26 th birthday. The primary school teacher from Killaraght, just outside Boyle took on the challenge in order to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society.

“I had originally intended to run the Women’s Mini Marathon and that was postponed to the autumn so I decided to set myself a challenge before my 26 th birthday,” explained Bernadette.

With her own family having been touched by cancer, with her mother Christine making a recovery, and extended family and neighbours receiving diagnoses over the years Ms Drury said she wanted to do what she could.

“Cancer patients face such a difficult and challenging road every day. I’m not an athlete at all and I would have a basic level of fitness. It’s a big challenge, but not compared to what cancer patients have to go through.”

What originally started out as a Facebook birthday fundraiser, is now a campaign on GoFundMe, and in all, to date, Bernadette has raised over €1,000 for the charity.

Asked how she keeps motivated every day, Bernadette said she thinks of those who have received a diagnosis, who are in recovery, or those who have sadly passed away.

“If I’m finding it tough or struggling I dedicate kilometres in my run to those who have passed, or people who have survived it, their bravery inspires me.”

Before tackling online school work with her first and second class students, Ms Drury hits the road early in the morning to get her 10km run done each day.

“First thing in the morning I face it and get it out of the way. It’s getting more achievable, you do build up resilience. A 2km used to kill me.”

Bernadette will cross the finish line on May 29 th next as she turns 26 and thanked all those who have already donated to the cause.