John's Hyrox Simulation for Autism Awareness Hub Roscrea

Hi, my name is John Mullins.

On February 22nd, I’ll be taking on a Solo Hyrox as a challenge at Adrenaline Gym Roscrea, to raise funds for the Autism Awareness Hub Roscrea (AAR).

My son, Alfie, is nearly six years old. He’s a happy, intelligent, and fun-loving little boy who was officially diagnosed with Autism earlier this year.

As any parent in a similar situation knows, hearing this diagnosis is never easy. But you quickly come to accept it, embrace it, and do everything possible to ensure your child gets the support and services they need. Unfortunately, that’s when you realize just how limited—and in many cases, non-existent—those services are.

It’s a constant struggle, with endless waiting lists and a fight for every service. Even securing a suitable education for your child can feel like an uphill battle.

My family didn’t know about the AAR Hub in Roscrea until Alfie’s diagnosis, but it has been a lifeline for us. From the moment I first reached out, their response was welcoming and supportive. We signed Alfie up for the Little Explorer’s Group, and it’s been a fantastic experience for him.

He runs into the Hub each week, greeted by Robyn and the incredible volunteers, always with a big smile on his face. Most weeks, I have to bribe him with McDonald’s just to get him to leave!

When you’ve struggled to access Autism services, a facility like the Hub in Roscrea is truly a blessing. Beyond the activities for children, it creates a supportive community where parents can seek advice and share experiences.

The Hub has big plans and even bigger ambitions, and I hope the funds I raise can help them achieve their goals. On behalf of my family, and especially Alfie, I want to thank everyone in advance for their support of this exciting (and daunting!) event in aid of an amazing cause. Hope to see you there on the day also!