#dil2019

Thanks to everyone who donated and showed their support. You’re probably sick of hearing it at this point but it really does mean the world to me. I’m so glad I was able to walk even though I was ill and with such good company too. I was dead after but it was so worth it. It was a pity that some of the people around us were so rude and inconsiderate but having my friends around me really kept me going. I will only focus on the positive experience from this walk and I won’t let the negative experiences discourage me from future walks but I think this will be the first and last time I walk in Phoenix Park. On a more positive note, the park itself was beautiful and it was amazing to see the number of people who turned up for the event. Some with beautiful banners for their loved ones and others dressed in bright clothing with fairy lights wrapped around them. One group brought red balloons to release at the end of the walk which was such a lovely idea and it was moving to watch 🎈 Well done to all the organisers, volunteers and participants! #dil2019 #thankyou #pietahouse #stayingpositive (at Baile Átha Cliath, Ireland) https://www.instagram.com/aliialex/p/BxYRRCPldMw/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=19lxo4491u74z

Or at least I’ll try to! I’ve had antibiotics prescribed twice while working in NI and both times I’ve felt a million times worse within twelve hours of the first dose. I know where the line is and I’ll know if I need to sit it out but I can’t stress the importance of this walk. I don’t just do it to raise awareness and money for the cause (although it is so important). I do it for myself. It’s a form of self care and a reminder for when I’m on my own, and things feel like their falling apart or irreparable, and the monster that is anxiety comes up with some bullshit excuse not to call home or friend that I believe until I’m out the other side, that I’m not alone and there’s always help if I need it. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. Keep your fingers crossed that this turns around quickly cause I don’t want to wait a year🤞🏻 #dil2019 #dilphoenixpark #pietahouse #selfcare (at Newry) https://www.instagram.com/aliialex/p/BxR3z2FlW-b/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=19luqtjsqjvbv

And we’re off! I’ve just uploaded my first #dil2019 blog post and I’d really appreciate it if you could take a minute to read it, maybe give it a share 😉 I’m hoping to update it regularly so watch this space! https://www.darknessintolight.ie/fundraisers/ alexhayden/phoenix-park #darknessintolight #pietahouse #sharetoraiseawareness (at Northern Ireland) https://www.instagram.com/aliialex/p/BuZxhqOlt52/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1uewjrhgdbwjd