Derry mental health advocate taking on 'monumental' Sahara endurance challenge

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh met with Danny Quigley today to extend his best wishes to the local endurance athlete and mental health advocate as he prepares to take on an extraordinary new challenge - running 200 miles (321 km) through the Sahara Desert to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.

Danny, who lost his father Colm to suicide, has dedicated his life to supporting mental health and wellbeing through The Lighthouse Project, an initiative focused on early intervention, physical activity, and community support.

Since the project began Danny has been successful in facilitating a number of support services including over 16,000 people being able to access its database in search of local help and support, facilitating more than 500 counselling sessions that have been funded within the local community.

Over 700 children and adults have joined sporting programmes improving their mental and physical wellbeing while over 200 teenagers have gained OCN Level 2 mental health training.

Speaking ahead of the challenge, the Mayor said: “Danny continues to inspire so many people in our city and district through his incredible resilience and commitment to helping others. His work with The Lighthouse Project is making a real and lasting difference - giving hope, confidence and practical tools to those who need it most.

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“I want to wish him every success as he takes on this monumental test of endurance in one of the toughest environments on earth. Danny’s journey reminds us all that no one should ever feel alone and that, together, we can shine a light on the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.”

Danny’s Sahara challenge aims to raise vital funds to continue the Lighthouse Project’s life-changing work. Supporters can follow his training journey and donate at https://gofund.me/bd705518.