Brought to you by our friends at Vhi, in this week’s people of parkrun entry, we hear from Bernie O’Connor, a carer from Armagh parkrun. She tells us about the inclusivity of parkrun and her funniest parkrun moment on Valentine’s Day!
How did you get involved in parkrun?
One day, I just decided to give it a go! I was going to the gym but I wanted to do a fundraiser for autism for our daughter. I started to go on the treadmill, and then decided to give outdoor running a go – I have been doing it for eight years now!
What do you love about parkrun?
My favourite thing about parkrun is that it is inclusive for all abilities.
Who do you participate with?
It’s a family affair with myself, hubby and two daughters. One of my daughters has autism, and our other daughter completes the course with her.
Any parkrun milestones/achievements you would like to share?
Our daughter who has autism achieved her 250th parkrun two weeks ago, while me and hubby achieved ours a while back.
How has parkrun impacted positively on you?
It is a part of our life that keeps us active mentally, physically and great socially for our daughter and ourselves.
What was your best parkrun experience?
When our daughter with special needs achieved her 250th parkrun, it was a special day and a major milestone for her.
What was the funniest parkrun moment?
When my husband had my face put on a t-shirt he was wearing for St. Valentine’s day!
What advice would you give to someone who’s never been to parkrun?
Just give it a go, you never know, it could change your life for the best!
#loveparkrun
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