Run Republic is honoured to announce that we will be accompanying Peter Ryan as he embarks on his journey from Malin Head to Mizen Head in aid of the NCBI this coming Sunday, October 8th. Peter’s 586km journey will take five days to complete with Peter crossing the line on World Sight Day 2023, October 12th. The funds raised from the event will aid the development of the country’s first Vision Van. The Vision Van is a mobile information and eye health awareness unit that will travel across Ireland, providing information, awareness, and support services about eye conditions to local communities around the country.
Peter told Run Republic ‘I would like to thank everybody for all the support so far with this run. We’re heading towards the start line now, starting to feel the nerves, but all the well wishes means the world to me. The NCBI is a charity that means everything to me, they looked after me when times were tough. Running has given me a lot, and so has the NCBI, and I want to combine the two to try and make the Vision Van happen. The run is about more than just “running”, I’m trying to showcase what people with a disability can do. I’m using all my favourite things in life to make something great happen!’
NCBI Chief Services Officer Aaron Mullaniff says Peter’s efforts will not only help raise vital funds, but also help break down stereotypes. ‘As Ireland’s national sight loss agency, our mission for more than 90 years has been to ensure that blind and vision impaired people can overcome the barriers that impede their participation in society. We are thrilled Peter is undertaking this challenge, and in doing so, he has chosen to help us raise much-needed funds for our Vision Van as well as raise awareness on the importance of good eye health, something that many people take for granted.’
Run Republic will be on site with Peter throughout his journey, providing updates and insight from the team as well as from Peter himself as he makes his way from Malin to Mizen for the NCBI’s first Vision Van. You can donate to this great cause using the link below!