Paralympian completes run from top to toe of Ireland
Grace Sweeney
Blind Paralympian Peter Ryan has successfully completed his run from Donegal to Cork, raising funds for the NCBI Vison Van.
The challenge took place over five days with the longest leg challenging Peter to run more than three consecutive marathons in just one day.
On 8 October Peter started his multi-marathon, running 108km from Malin to Omagh.
On day two he ran 121km from Omagh to Edgeworthstown followed by another 129km from Edgeworthstown to Neagh on day three.
On day four Peter ran 127km from Nenagh to Millstreet in Cork.
On World Sight Day 12 October, Peter completed his mammoth journey with a 109km run from Millstreet to Mizen Head, crossing the finish line in the pitch dark and lashing rain.
The Paralympian ran an astonishing 586km in just 5 days to raise funds for the NCBI (National Council for the Blind of Ireland) to aid the development of Irelands first mobile information and eye health awareness unit, The Vision Van.
The Vision Van will travel across Ireland, informing communities on eye conditions, awareness, and on the support services available.
After being diagnosed with a rare genetic condition known as Lebers hereditary optic neuropathy at the of age 19, Peter was left with only 10% of his sight.
The NCBI provided Peter with huge support upon receiving his diagnosis and he now wants to give back to the charity by raising the funds needed for The Vision Van.
The Tipperary man received huge support from the public as well as from Irish rugby star Robbie Henshaw.
With €80,000 already raised, Peter said the challenge was the "most demanding thing" he had ever done.
Aaron Mullaniff, Chief Services Officer at NCBI said: “The vital funds Peter has raised with his run from Malin to Mizen will be the catalyst for the amazing Vision Van project which champions the importance of prevention when it comes to citizens’ eye health in this country – a message that ties in perfectly to the significance of World Sight Day."