Chris Connolly Champions Recovery and Community at Very Pink Run

Chris Connolly, a prominent advocate for addiction recovery, is using his platform to inspire others as he participates in the upcoming Very Pink Run, organized by Breast Cancer Ireland. Scheduled for September 6 in Dublin, September 7 in Cork, and September 14 in Kilkenny, the event aims to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Participants can also join virtually, making it accessible to communities worldwide.

Connolly, also known for his initiative “Get Better With Chris,” shared his personal journey with addiction, highlighting the struggles he faced from a young age. He admitted, “I always felt very, very deeply insecure, inadequate and unsure in who I was.” This sense of inadequacy led him to seek solace in substances, including drugs and alcohol, as he grappled with feelings of emptiness during his formative years.

As Connolly reflected on his path to recovery, he acknowledged the long battle against his addiction. He stated, “I struggled with drugs for a long time,” emphasizing the challenges he faced in achieving sobriety. His turning point came when he realized he needed to embrace help. “I needed to relinquish the old version of me to be able to come into the new version of me,” he explained.

The concept behind “Get Better With Chris” emerged during his treatment, where he learned to accept his imperfections. “Rather than striving for perfection, I just always strive to get better,” he said. Connolly’s message resonates with those who struggle with their self-image, as he encourages individuals to embrace their unique journeys.

Connolly’s involvement in the Very Pink Run stems from his commitment to community and support. He is part of the Very Pink Tribe, a group of ambassadors rallying support for breast cancer awareness. In Ireland, there are approximately 3,700 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed each year, affecting one in seven women and one in 738 men during their lifetime. The Very Pink Run has raised an impressive €7.3 million to date, contributing significantly to research initiatives.

Reflecting on his motivation for participating in the event, Connolly recounted a pivotal experience from last year when he interviewed a breast cancer survivor about her journey. “She shared all her thoughts, her feelings and her emotions — every single part of the process,” he recalled. This encounter left a profound impact on him, reinforcing the importance of sharing stories to foster connection and understanding within the community.

The Very Pink Run is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities. Connolly emphasized the importance of connection, stating, “It’s all to do with people, it’s also to do with stories.” He believes the event serves as a powerful reminder that no one is alone in their struggles.

Participants can choose from 5-kilometre and 10-kilometre routes, with festivities that include music and entertainment. In addition to the live events, individuals may join virtually, ensuring everyone can contribute to this important cause. Registration is available at www.verypinkrun.ie, with all funds raised directed towards Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research into metastatic disease progression and awareness programs.

In a show of community spirit, Connolly has established the first Get Better running club, which has quickly expanded to ten locations across Ireland since January. He aims to create a supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges, addiction, or trauma. “We want to give everybody the same chance,” he remarked, underscoring the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

Connolly’s recent live show at The Sugar Club in Dublin further exemplifies his dedication to sharing his journey and connecting with others. He expressed a desire to continue this format, aiming to provide a platform for humor and shared experiences, demonstrating that laughter can be a powerful tool in healing.

Through his advocacy and community efforts, Chris Connolly is not only transforming his own life but also inspiring others to embark on their paths to recovery. As the Very Pink Run approaches, his message is clear: striving for personal growth and connection is vital, and every effort to “get better” counts.