Deksha Shankar

Why I’m Taking on the Run 100 Challenge This February

This February, I’m taking part in the Irish Heart Foundation's Run 100 challenge, which means running 100 kilometres across the month.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t sign up because I’m a confident runner or because this feels easy. I signed up because heart disease and stroke affect so many people in Ireland, and it’s something we often don’t think about until it’s suddenly very close to home.

For me, this challenge is about more than just running. It’s about being more mindful of my own health and using what I can do to support a cause that genuinely saves lives. The Irish Heart Foundation does incredible work from research and education to supporting people and families when they need it most and being able to contribute, even in a small way, really matters to me.

Some days I’ll feel motivated, and some days I won’t. There will be runs I enjoy and runs I struggle through. But I know that every kilometre adds up, just like small choices and small changes can make a real difference to our heart health over time.

I’m doing this challenge to push myself, to stay consistent, and to remind myself that looking after our hearts, physically and emotionally is important. If my efforts can help raise awareness or support the work of the Irish Heart Foundation, then every sore muscle will be worth it.

If you’re able to support me, whether that’s through a donation, a message of encouragement, or even by moving a little more yourself this February, I’d be so grateful.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for supporting healthier hearts ❤️