Carer takes on Olympic-length triathlon for alcohol charity (From Haringey Independent)

Carer takes on Olympic-length triathlon for alcohol charity

4:47pm Tuesday 8th May 2012 in News By Emma Innes

A carer from Haringey is undertaking an Olympic distance triathlon to raise money for a charity which supports people with alcohol dependency and their families.

In 2010 Josephine Hartfiel, 30, was caring for someone who was alcohol dependent and found the support of Haringey Advisory Group on Alcohol (HAGA) invaluable.

As a result she has decided to do an Olympic distance triathlon, the Dambuster, in Leicestershire, to raise money for the charity.

The event, on June 16, will involve a 1.5km open water swim, 40km cycle ride and a 10km run.

She hopes to raise £1,000 for HAGA to set up a new photography course and exhibition in November.

Ms Hartfiel, who completed her first triathlon in May 2011, said: “Caring for someone with an addiction eats away at your resources and nerves.

“All of a sudden there is a big fat rainy cloud above you and you cannot push it away because it is not in your power.

“HAGA were a big source of relief. They cannot solve the problem for you but they were there to listen and to help figure out what to do next.”

To sponsor Ms Hartfiel visit www.justgiving.com/josephine-hartfiel