A CO Tyrone woman who began hiking the Mournes to cope with mental health issues has completed her mission to lap Slieve Donard 36 times.
Helen McLoughlin, who is a personal trainer, took up hiking earlier this year after experiencing mental health difficulties.
On Saturday, Helen climbed Slieve Donard from the saddle to the summit 36 times.
The 33-year-old, who lives in Dungannon, has raised almost £5,000 for the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team, who came to her aid earlier this year when she became disoriented during a hike.
Ms McLoughlin, who formerly owned a gym in Armagh, said her mental health had worsened over lockdown, partly due to the closure of her business.
Having sought help, she had been doing well until February when she said she "hit rock bottom" and felt she had "no way out".
Having left her home in her pyjama bottoms and slippers, the young woman found herself on a motorway bridge.
However, she was spotted by a female off-duty PSNI officer, who called for help.
A passer-by who recognised Helen from her hikes also helped her.
Following this, she changed her course of medical treatment.
Her challenge had raised £4,900 by yesterday.
"I needed help and Mourne Mountain Rescue Team helped me," she told The Irish News last month.
"They are 100 per cent volunteers. They are not funded and I don't think people realise how much they could need them and how good they are.
"The mountains saved me and that's why I am giving back."
:: Donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/helen-mcloughlin1
Anyone in distress can contact Lifeline on 0800 808 8000 or the Samaritans on 116 123.
