My name is Jade. I’m 27 years old and I live in Laois. Animals have been a huge part of my life since I was a young child. My love for animals has always encouraged me to fundraise for charities which support animals and to help animals in any way I can. Over the years we have adopted numerous dogs and rescued cats, horses and even a donkey.

This is my fifth year to take part in the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon. Every year I choose an animal charity to fundraise for. For the fourth year in a row I am raising funds for My Lovely Horse Rescue. They are an amazing charity that work tirelessly to help all animals not just horses but donkeys, goats, pigs, dogs you name it they help them! Knowing that I can help this charity to save animals on a daily basis means so much to me, they never leave an animal behind.

Before I had heard about the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon I had never taken part in any event that involved me walking or jogging, so this was a big challenge for me initially but I completed it alongside my sister and even managed to jog some of the 10km! This event is now one of my favourite days in the year. The event itself is such a buzz and so much fun to be a part of, with women all over Ireland joining together to raise much needed funds for so many great causes.

Last year was a very different kind of event as not only was it virtual but I was also four months pregnant with my first baby (and nausea certainly didn’t help me on the 10km walk). This year I have made it my mission to push myself to get back into training for this year’s event and hopefully inspire others to take part alongside me especially those who are on the same postpartum journey.

The theme this year is ‘Power Of Me’ and it really does hit home how one person can do so much and make such a difference. My son Charlie is my motivation and inspiration this year. He makes me want to be the best I can be.

This year I’m not only trying to train for the mini marathon but I’m also trying to strengthen up and loose that extra postpartum weight while looking after my little boy which can be extremely exhausting not only physically but emotionally too! Thankfully, I have a local women’s gym ran by a good friend of mine that is extremely supportive and encouraging. If I can offer any advice to those taking part this year it is to reach out to friends, family and local gyms for support and encouragement. Some days are harder than others especially in these strange times but having a network of support can really help.

www.idonate.ie/Jadeandgem