Dominic to take on 30th marathon to raise vital funds for addiction and mental health awareness

A STRABANE man is lacing up his running shoes to compete in his 30th marathon this weekend.

Dominic Carlin will join thousands of runners to compete in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon on Sunday, October 26.

He is taking on the marathon in memory of his beloved son Rory and all those who have lost their lives to addiction.

In doing so, Dominic will also be raising funds for The Koram Centre under the banner of the Rory Carlin Memorial Fund.

The Fund was established by Rory's family in a bid to raise awareness of the increasing drug and alcohol problem, and the subsequent impact on the mental health of young people.

Rory (22), lost his life to drugs on May 7, 2023, and his family have raised thousands of pounds to provide support to those who are in the grip of addiction or facing mental health issues.

Their campaign has garnered widespread support and to date, over £165,000 has been raised.

A large contingent from Strabane will join Dominic on the streets of the Irish capital in support of his ongoing campaign.

"This is my 30th marathon but I'll be running to help the Koram Centre to continue their great work that they're doing in helping young people with addiction and mental health issues," he said.

"Since we started the campaign, the support from everyone across Strabane and district has been brilliant.

"The campaign wouldn't be a success without the support of the community and local businesses.

"As a family, we would again like to thank the town and the wider community for supporting the campaign.

"There's not a village or town that hasn't been impacted by addiction and drugs.

"Every child will be offered drugs, and we are using the workshops with the Koram Centre to educate them on the dangers and to say no.

"Taking just one drug can lead to addiction, and sadly it can lead to death.

"The campaign, I believe, is definitely helping to get that message across to the youth and letting them know what support services are out there.

"Local politicians have also been more than good in helping us with the campaign, but I think it's now time for the government to step up and do more for people suffering with addiction and mental health."

A keen runner, Dominic is looking forward to the occasion, but as always the 'Your Life Matters' message will be front and centre.

"There’s no happy ending with drugs. If you are struggling please reach out and talk to someone," he urged.

"Start the conversation. Your life matters.”

To donate to the Fund, scan the QR code or visit:

www.justgiving.com/page/rorycarlin?fbclid=

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