Abridged version!....I am a trustee for this wonderful small charity set up in memory of baby Cindy, which supports the families of critically ill children whilst they are in hospital.  We are inundated with applications for grants and need to fund raise to continue this vital support. Please sponsor me if you feel able.  ( I am a runner, ...so this is not about my challenge,  it's about raising vital funds!!! 🙃😉

In greater detail...

I am a trustee for The Cindy Appleyard Foundation, set up in memory of  Cindy the daughter of  my good friends Emily and Nick Appleyard, who died in February 2013 aged 10 months.

She was on the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit waiting for a heart transplant at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. Cindy was eventually diagnosed with MTP (Mitochondrial Trifunctional Protein Deficiency). It meant that her heart became unable to function without life support.

When Cindy became critically ill the family had to re-locate immediately to Newcastle 150 miles from their home, so they could be close to Cindy all the time. They faced the possibility of being in Newcastle for many months.

Emily and Nick realised what it is like for families in their position who had to leave their homes, schools, jobs, friends and family behind with no notice to be near to their sick child.  Often one or both parents have to give up jobs, there are significant extra costs to living away from home  / commute long distance whilst often other siblings need to remain at home also increasing anguish and childcare costs.

The Cindy Appleyard Foundation  is in its second year and has already awarded over 80 grants to  struggling families during these immensely stressful times. We award small grants to help alleviate financial hardship faced by families with a sick child in hospital many miles from their home to to cover costs such as: accommodation, travel costs and daily living expenses.

Oh and if you know me you'll be aware that I enjoy running and I race quite regularly....but it's not about me  running a half marathon its about supporting this wonderful charity !!!🙃😉

(ps we are looking for ongoing  corporate sponsors if anyone can help with this also?!)

Thank you for your support.

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