Athlone student's 300km charity challenge in memory of late sister

A 21-year-old Athlone student will have her late sister's memory firmly on her mind as she walks a remarkable 300 kilometres for charity this month.

Moydrum's Jessica Henson will undertake the charity challenge in support of Pieta and, in doing so, will remember her sibling, Nicola, who the family lost to suicide in 2013.

"I have chosen this charity in memory of my sister Nicola, who we lost to suicide. We feel her absence every single day, and the grief is something we carry with us always," said Jessica.

"Over time, I’ve really come to understand how important it is to feel heard, supported, and less alone in that kind of pain."

Jessica undertook a similar challenge in 2021, in the process raising funds "for the vital services Pieta House provides" in our communities.

"I was so grateful for the fundraising support and awareness my charity challenge generated in 2021. It meant a great deal to our family," Jessica said.

Jessica will start her walking quest on Tuesday (August 12) and, by walking 10 kilometres per day, she aims to reach her charity goal on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day.

"My aim is to walk 10km per day, along numerous local routes, and with Nicola's memory on my mind I am hoping to raise much-needed funds once again for Pieta House," Jessica said.

Like many charities, Pieta House, which has a local base in Athlone, relies on the goodwill, generosity and kindness of others in order to fundraise, and Jessica is determined to maintain her support for the important community service. "Their work is life-saving, and it’s largely funded by the generosity of the local community - 85% of Pieta's income comes from public donations," Jessica added.

The TUS General Business student spoke about how Pieta House was a charity close to the family's heart and that, in May of each year, she participates in Darkness Into Light, the charity's annual walking event and fundraiser aimed at raising awareness about suicide and self-harm prevention.

With an initial fundraising target of €300, Jessica is hoping to exceed expectations and replicate the figure achieved in 2021 when donations from the public saw her generate more than €2,000 for Pieta House.

Currently working in the DPD Marketing Department for the summer months, Jessica is grateful for the support she received four years ago as the country emerged from the grip of Covid-19.

"If I achieve a similar fundraising figure this time around, it will help Pieta House continue providing their vital service in our local community. As I walk my daily 10km route I will fondly remember Nicola and know that I am also enhancing awareness of the supports available for suicide prevention," Jessica said.

To make a donation to Jessica's charity walking challenge you can do so by visiting: www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/jessicahenson