Vicky Phelan used to run with a key in her hands in case of attack.
The Cervical Check campaigner opened up on the measures she had to take to protect herself amid the debate started by Ashling Murphy's murder.
Kilkenny woman Vicky said she is devastated by the news in Offaly and knows the feeling of being in fear.
She tweeted: "Like every single woman in this country, I have been deeply affected by the brutal, senseless murder of Ashling Murphy in broad daylight on Wednesday. Before I was diagnosed with cancer, I was an avid runner. I ran 4-5 times a week, always on my own.
"Each and every time, I had a key between my fingers ready to attack, I was constantly scanning my surroundings and made notes of what men were wearing, how tall they were etc. in case any of them attacked me. I never took the same route twice and I never wore short shorts.
"I was one of the lucky ones. In all my years out running, I was never attacked or followed. I was flashed at once but I said nothing and just kept running and made my way onto a busier path, just in case! BUT that doesn't make any of what women have to do RIGHT just to go for a walk or a run alone or walk home from a night out alone!
" Unfortunately for Ashling Murphy, and many other women before her, she paid the ultimate price for being a woman who dared to go out alone for a run...she was brutally killed. This has to END! RIP Ashling."
