Wexford#MagicMaker- Niav- for Bumbleance

My name is Niav and I am representing Wexford in this years Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon. 

I work with the Open Training College Dublin as a social care educator and elearning developer, and with Gorey Community School Adult Education Department as a childcare tutor.

As a mum of 5 there’s not much free time but when I get some, I love to get out for a walk, or stay home and do some flower arranging, gardening, or reading. 

This will be my first time to attempt a mini marathon! Having had a mini stroke last year, walking has become a very important part of my recovery, so my theory is if I’m going to be walking, I may as well put it to good use and raise some funds and awareness for a worthwhile charity. The charity I am fundraising for is Bumbleance, the National Children’s Ambulance Service.

Women Making Magic - what a theme! We all bring our own unique piece of magic to everything we do. Some days we inspire others, some days we need others to inspire us – as long as there is inspiration the magic will continue! 

Having a stroke, even a mini one, really takes its toll- physically, mentally, emotionally, cognitively, socially – hammered! I guess not quitting is one piece of the magic I hope to share in this process. The other magic is the endless support that one can find in a group of women – being here to support and encourage each other is definitely magic! 

For anyone considering taking part but not quite sure – I say go for it! This is something that builds a bond with other women, gives you a training focus, raises funds and awareness for a charity of your choice – all in all a win-win situation! 

For me, the best training advice is to listen to your body – rest when you need to, work to your pace and your limits, not someone else’s, and don’t try to force yourself to be at the same fitness level as the super fit if you are not in that category (I certainly am not!!).