James’ 465km challenge to raise funds for HOPE
By Hayden Moore
IN RESPONSE to the growing number of people dying by suicide, one man is running 465km over 30 days to raise awareness and funds for HOPE suicide prevention drop-in centre.
James Lawless has undertaken the mammoth task, to challenge himself physically and mentally, after recently losing a friend to suicide.
James Lawless with Shamrock Rovers star Aaron Greene
“I think suicide is unfortunately quite a common thing in our community, especially in recent times, so the more that goes towards preventing that the better,” James tells The Echo.
“I lost a friend just before Christmas through suicide and when I got speaking to Mary McLoughlin from HOPE and she told me her story, I knew the money raised would be going to the right place.
HOPE suicide prevention drop-in centre was founded by Tallaght mother Mary McLoughlin in 2013 to offer support, counselling, and a cup of tea for anybody struggling with their mental health.
James comes from a background in cycling, with his father, the late Mick Lawless a prominent figure in the Irish cycling scene having set up South Dublin Cycling Club and served as Cycling Ireland president.
Despite not living a lifestyle filled with exercise, James has run two marathons in the past and a half iron man.
The 35-year-old is close friends with Shamrock Rovers striker Aaron Greene, who is also a Kilnamanagh native.
“I’d be good friends with Aaron Greene and a few of the players with Shamrock Rovers donated their boots to raise funds for the challenge,” says James.
“A lot of the players donated their boots and raised money through some of the fans.
“It was done through the Tales from the East Stand Podcast and Gary Parsons.
“They were boots that they had worn in the FAI Cup Final and throughout their league winning season last year.
“All the players really have been a great help and I can’t thank them enough.”
Shamrock Rovers players Roberto Lopes, Gary O’Neill, Lee Grace, Aaron McEneff and captain Ronan Finn all contributed pairs of boots to the cause.
The Suicide Awareness for HOPE campaign on GoFundMe is still active, with all of the money raised going directly to paying for rent, rates, electricity, phone bills at the drop-in centre in Tallaght Village.
To donate, visit: HERE.
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