A Co Armagh man is hoping to have shed an incredible five stone in weight this year as he raises vital money for the Southern Area Hospice.
Damien Smyth, from Tullysaran, took on the mammoth challenge at the beginning of this year with the aim of losing the incredible 70lbs of weight by June – and of course raising money for a charity very close to his heart.
And has he managed to reach his goal?
Well, the ‘Big Reveal’ event is on this Friday night in McKenna’s Bar, Armagh – on a night Damien will be celebrating his 34th birthday.
He has avoided sneaking a cheeky peak at the scales but says it has been a difficult, but rewarding, six months.
“I have had the experience of the good work that the hospice does,” he said. “I always like to take the opportunity to get involved in giving something back to them.
“You hope you never need it, but you don’t know when you will,” said Damien.
On how the challenge came about.
“I was just sitting one day and the hospice put up a post on Facebook asking if anyone wanted to do this challenge, so I just thought I would go for it,” he said.
Adding: “I’m feeling so good now, I have a lot more energy, I am enjoying being out playing with the children in the evenings, and I’m back doing a bit of mountain walking.
“I’m glad I have done it as I normally do something for the hospice every year but this time, as well as raising money for a much needed cause, I have improved my own health.
“It’s just been changing eating habits and making time for exercise. I have stopped running in and buying stuff in the shops. I now make my lunch; prepare meals and have stopped eating convenience foods. I feel much healthier and find the exercise is a good way to clear the head as well.”
Tickets for the ‘Big Reveal’ are available from McKenna’s Bar, Clarke Fitness or by contacting Damien on 07725 197615.
Anyone who would like to donate to Damien should visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/losetogain
