A WONDERFUL young Donegal teenager is inspiring people across the county to join a fantastic effort in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland.
Lily Pyper (16), from Ramelton, is representing DSI’s Donegal branch for a 42km virtual marathon during October, which is Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
Lily Pyper in Donegal wants you to sign up for Down Syndrome Ireland’s Purple Run.
Lily said: “I have been part of the Donegal branch since I was a baby.
“I have taken part in lots of the organised events and campaigns over the years, and as a result, I know many members and have lots of friends.”
She added: “Recently, I even made new friends with members of Down Syndrome New South Wales while in Australia and told them all about Down Syndrome Ireland’s Donegal branch.”
Lily’s parents Amber and Martin and siblings Erin (26), Rory (23), and Molly (21), will all tackle the 42km challenge that is known as the Purple Run.
It is is a flexible, month-long virtual fitness challenge with members of the public invited to walk, jog, or run a total marathon distance of 42km (26.2 miles) across the 31 days of October at their own pace.
Down Syndrome Ireland Purple Run.
The Pypers will complete their kilometres individually while uniting under one family fundraising goal in Lily’s name.
A spokesperson for DSI said: “Every euro raised through the initiative will directly fund core services nationwide, assisting individuals with Down syndrome through every milestone, from early intervention to inclusive education, clubs and classes, and employment opportunities.
She added: “Lily is taking centre stage as an official ambassador for Down Syndrome Ireland’s annual Purple Run.
“Lily, who turns 17 this October during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, will represent the Donegal branch as she inspires people nationwide to complete the 42km virtual marathon throughout the month.
“Lily is a familiar, cheerful face around Ramelton, whether she is riding her trike while litter-picking on local roads, hitting the waves with Liquid Therapy, or learning to swim through Down Syndrome Ireland Donegal branch sessions.
“A passionate performer, Lily attends two drama groups weekly and dreams of one day visiting Broadway.
“For over five years, Lily has been an avid horse rider and is a proud member of Stars in the Saddle Special Olympics club.
“After navigating a year of health challenges, Lily is determined to use the Purple Run to build her fitness while bringing her signature energy, and plenty of vlogs and selfies, to the campaign.
“She joins members across the country including Andrew McCarthy and his brother, Irish rugby star Joe McCarthy, to take on the challenge.”
Joe McCarthy and Andrew McCarthy are taking on the Purple Run for Down Syndrome Ireland this October.
Rugby ace Joe said: “I’m always proud to stand alongside Andrew and support Down Syndrome Ireland.
“The work they do to empower people with Down syndrome across the country is incredible.
“The Purple Run isn’t about setting record pace, it’s about community, inclusion, and getting active together.”
People can take part as an individual, group, school or workplace and raise funds for your local branch by signing up on the purplerun.ie website.
Participants receive an exclusive, limited-edition Purple Run running top, a calendar to track their steps, and access to a Purple Run community Facebook page.
Down Syndrome Ireland provides all-through life supports to people with Down syndrome and their families across Ireland.