Michelle wants walkers to join forest challenge

Michelle wants walkers to join forest challenge

14 October 2015

A YOUNG Kilcoo woman, who suffered a minor stroke last May, is encouraging people to take part in next month’s Tollymore Challenge Walk.

The event is being organised by Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke and 22 year-old Michelle O’Hare is hoping people will not only support the event, but think about their own health as well.

Michelle got involved with the local charity after she suffered a minor stroke following her exams and during her recovery decided to make the most of her rehabilitation and her Marketing Degree by joining the charity’s events team on a part-time basis.

She was tasked with helping to organise the Tollymore Challenge Walk which prompted her to  

think about turning her negative experience into a positive one.

“I knew of the charity’s amazing work and I instantly wanted to help. I was delighted to join the team and was able to help them promote and recruit to the Tollymore Challenge Walk and with  Tollymore Forest Park more or less right on my doorstep I’m in a good position to help,” Michelle explained.

“The park is a must see for anyone who hasn’t been before with it’s forest, river walks and historical buildings as well as the Mourne Mountains surrounding it. For those that know it well, they will want to return to see it in all it’s autumnal beauty.”

The 13 mile walk starts and finishes in the confines of the forest park and is organised in conjunction with 26 Extreme Marathons, so walkers are part of a much bigger event experience.  

Michelle continued: “The event village has a great atmosphere with music, a food outlet and refreshments where families and loved ones can cheer you to the finish where you are awarded a medal for all your hard work.

“It is going to be a brilliant day out. By taking part in the Tollymore Challenge Walk, people will be helping Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke raise awareness of stroke in young people and help to campaign for heart health and fund research to recognise the signs of these conditions.”

Michelle said she is so proud of the “wonderful charity” and helping bring awareness to the local community and further afield of the help it provides.

She added: “I hope people will join me on November 14 for the Tollymore Challenge Walk and be part of something positive. They can sign up at www.nichs.org.uk/challengewalks or telephone (028) 9026 6740 for further information.