Story
It's Randy here. Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Many of you will know that this year has been a bit of a challenge for me. After two falls and two operations since January to repair the ruptured quad tendon on my right leg, I am now making good progress with my walking. Negotiating stairs is still a challenge but I will get there.
(Me after my first op in Scotland in January 2026)
To celebrate my recovery so far, I am planning to undertake a 5-kilometre sponsored walk in Bushy Park, near to where I live in Hampton, on Saturday 5th September.
My hope is to raise at least £500 for a charity called The Amber Trust.
The Amber Trust was founded in 1995 with the aim of providing blind and partially sighted children, including those with additional disabilities, the best possible chance to meet their musical needs and aspirations.
They have grown to become the only national charity dedicated to supporting vision impaired children with their musical development and education. For some children, learning to play an instrument or to sing can add immeasurably to their lives. With the right encouragement and support, these children can develop their talents, break down barriers, build confidence and fulfil their potential as individuals and musicians.
For me, there is a very personal reason for choosing The Amber Trust. Eleanor Stollery is a delightful 15-year-old young lady who has benefited greatly from their support over many years. She and her parents live just across the road from us, so we have had the pleasure of watching Eleanor grow up and seeing just how important music is to her.
Early in her life Eleanor developed a brain tumour, which effectively left her blind. Over the years she has endured extensive rounds of chemotherapy, specialised treatments and neurosurgery, and thankfully at the present time her condition is stable.
This is what Eleanor says about the support she has received from the charity:
“The Amber Trust has played such an important part in my life. Their support has helped me develop my singing, build my confidence and take part in opportunities that I might not otherwise have had. They have supported me with my singing lessons and helped me to pursue my love of music. Through that support I have been able to perform, work with wonderful musicians and take part in some incredible opportunities. Music has given me a way to express myself, challenge myself and achieve things that I never imagined I would be able to do. I’m incredibly grateful to The Amber Trust for everything they have done for me and for helping me to follow my musical ambitions.”
(A recent picture of Eleanor with her singing teacher)
I hope you will consider supporting my challenge and helping me to reach my £500 target (more if possible), for this wonderful charity.
Thank you very much for your support.
Randy
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