Derry is preparing for a week of fitness classes, bootcamps and personal training all in the name of raising money for local mental health services.
Danny Quigley, who completed 10 Iron Man challenges in 10 days in the memory of his father Colm, has set up this Fitness Week for Suicide Awareness running from Monday, September 20, until Saturday, September 25.
Over 30 gyms and fitness facilities across the area have signed up to take part. Donation buckets will be placed in these gyms and each will offer a free or donation fee class or event to help raise money and awareness for this vital service.
The money raised will go to Pieta House and the Bogside Brandywell Health Forum, two essential local services that help those with mental health issues.
Danny spoke to MyDerry about this upcoming Fitness Week for Suicide Awareness.
He said: "Taking part in the fitness week will help to raise funds but those taking part can also benefit from the impact of exercise for mental and physical health. You are helping yourself while helping others. Do it for your own health and wellbeing.
"Visit your local gym and see if they are on board and what they are offering and get involved. If you are unsure I will be sharing all the activities and ideas on my Facebook page."
This Fitness Week for Suicide Awareness joins in the efforts to push Danny's fundraiser to £100,000. These services are seen to be needed even more so today.
Danny said: "Please keep donating and supporting, it is going to a vital support service. It is needed now more than ever.
"With the lockdowns and everything, it is the first time anyone has experienced this kind of thing. It is severely impacting people’s mental health and there is no existing advice on how to cope."
In the run up to Fitness Week for Suicide Awareness, Danny had a message of thanks for those who have supported his campaign so far.
He said: " For anyone that has donated, supported so far and who is taking part this week, I just want to say a massive thanks to you all.
"I did the Iron Man challenges in memory of my father. Our main goals were to break the stigma around suicide and raise awareness, everything else that has followed has been great. I was not expecting a reaction like it. It is great it is raising so much money and awareness."
Donations can be made here.
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