Local services show support for Ireland’s first Recovery Run

A NUMBER of local services supported a unique run held in the city recently to celebrate recovery from various addictions and mental health problems.

Finglas man, Austin Tuohy, who coordinated the event and who runs the aftercare service with Addiction Response Crumlin, came up with the idea for the Recovery Run.

It took place during the official Recovery Month, September, which is marked by events around the world.

First celebrated in America 30 years ago, Recovery Month has been acknowledged in Ireland for nearly a decade now with the Recovery Walk and various initiatives held every September aimed at celebrating recovery and breaking the stigma for thousands people who have broken the cycle of addiction or poor mental health and gone on to live productive, useful lives.

Many of those in recovery go on to work within their communities helping others who have gone down the road they had been on.

Ireland’s first Recovery Run was a 20-kilometre marathon style event for people in recovery or supporting the recovery of a loved one or recovery in their communities. 

“The idea of the run was to celebrate recovery, freedom and to join up services in a common goal and acknowledge the ability to set goals and work towards their completion,” said Tuohy.

The free run was supported and promoted by addiction support services including Recovery Academy Ireland, ACRG in the north east inner city, FAST in Finglas and YAP in Ballymun.

Staff from the services dropped by on the day to say hello, have some refreshments and allow new runners to join in. The day finished with food and refreshments in YAP, Ballymun 

The event had medical cover donated by Order of Malta Crumlin with refreshments from Nans Centra in Ballymun.

There was great support from the Cherry Orchard Running Club, and the Ballyrunners club from Ballymun.

“There was great and banter between the runners and their supporters who showed up to support this event,” said Tuohy. 

“There was also a great atmosphere of recovery and respect for each other on the day.

“The run was set to reflect recovery, as it can be a challenge at times, but everyone was there support and encourage each other. 

“Like recovery, it was a journey not a race.

“People showed up and didn’t know each other but were like old friends running laughing and chatting away.”

Plans for the 2020 Recovery Run are already underway. 

If you would information on the event call Austin on 085-274443.