Blarney turns orange for mental health cycling event

On 17th January on a cold and icy morning, 120 cyclists bedecked in orange cycling jerseys and face paint made their way through Tower, Cloghroe, Coachford, Dripsey, Leemount and back to Scoil Mhuire gan Smal in Blarney to help spread the message that it’s ok not to feel ok; and it’s absolutely ok to ask for help. The average temperature of 1° meant that the feet were cold but there was warmth in the conversations that were taking place between the cyclists. The Cycle Against Suicide Blarney SpinOff was also co-ordinated alongside a spinathon that kept up to 60 people actively energized for 3 hours. After the cycle, refreshments were served whilst Jim Breen addressed the large crowd. He acknowledged the true community spirit of Blarney that shone through with young and old helping out to make the day a great success. He thanked the Gardaí from Cork City Community Policing Unit and Blarney Garda Station who provided assistance to those participating in the Cycle and also for the key role they play in dealing with and preventing suicide. There was also great representation from local Mental Health Organisations such as Pieta House, Cork Mental Health and See Change. The main 2015 Cycle Against Suicide starts in Belfast on Monday, 27th April and covers the entire island of Ireland for two weeks before finishing in Dublin on Sunday, May 10th. This year, the cycle will stop in six Cork schools – Colaiste Pobail Bheanntraí, Schull Community College, Mercy Heights Secondary School in Skibereen, Clonakilty Community College, Christ King Girls’ Secondary School Douglas and St. Fanahan’s College in Mitchelstown. More information on www.cycleagainstsuicide.comhappy Feet

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