My name is Ruth O’Doherty. I moved from the couch to 5k walk in 3 months. I used to be very unfit, I decided it was time for me to take charge of my health with the support of staff member Siobhan Curran.
We took on the challenge together. I started walking around the Shoreline racetrack in Greystones once a week for the first week. I started by completing one lap in which I was puffing and panting. Over the next 5 weeks, I completed six laps with no puffing or panting.
On week 7 of the challenge I climbed to the top of Delgany Wood. It was tough, and I struggled at times but the following week I completed the walk again and made it to the top without struggling.
Then came the big challenge – could I walk 5k? I was determined to complete the challenge, so I decided to do a charity walk. I chose to complete a 5k walk in aid of Wicklow Hospice. Siobhan Curran supported me to contact the hospice. The charity sent me a sponsorship card and a t-shirt.
My first 5k training was in Druid’s Glen. I completed this walk on several occasions, and each time I completed it I had to stop less and less to catch my breath.
On the 9th of May, I put on my Wicklow Hospice t-shirt with pride and myself and Siobhan headed to Avondale Park in Rathdrum. The sun was shining, and the birds were singing and off I went to complete my 5k challenge. I raised over 100 euro for Wicklow Hospice and will be presenting the money to the fundraising committee next month.
I never thought I could do it but I did. Everyone should believe in themselves. I have never felt so good about myself both physically and mentally. I love going to the forest for walks.
“Believe you can and you will”
