Ready To Fly

By Lisa Danford

On a sunny Sunday afternoon, dozens of people gathered to walk along the Ohio River. They’re all getting ready for PigAbilities, which is a one-mile event during Flying Pig weekend.

Earlier this year, Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS) partnered with Queen City Running to start these weekly trainings.

“I’ve run the Flying Pig Marathon before and participated in PigAbilities with friends. I also train with Queen City Running. This partnership was a great way to get more people involved in PigAbilities,” said Ann Myres, lead community navigator for HCDDS.

“It’s a fun hour to get together, be active and connect with other people.”

PigAbilities Meetups are 2-3 p.m. every Sunday through April 30. They cover distances ranging from 0.25 miles to 1 mile, along accessible routes in Cincinnati.

Cathy Melvin has been attending the PigAbilities Meetups since they started in February. “I thought it would be good exercise,” she said. “I’m having fun and meeting new people.”

Even if you don’t think you can walk the full mile, Myres encourages people to come out, start with shorter distances, and then build up to the full mile.

“There are plenty of people to support you along the way,” she said. “Sometimes when you are walking and talking with other people, you can surprise yourself with how far you can go.”