Date published: 03 October 2017 by Anna Jackson
On Sunday 1 October, five-year-old Gwen and her dad Jamie, embarked on a Half Marathon of their own to raise vital funds for families. Their challenge, starting at Barnes Footbridge on the Thames and ending at Tower Bridge in London, spanned a total of 13 miles. This incredible little girl was inspired to take on the challenge as part of a school project after listening to some of our family stories. She said:
“I am doing this as part of a school project set this term. ‘How to make the world a better place’ - I hope to raise £100 for the Rainbow Trust Charity who help seriously ill children and their families.”
If that wasn’t enough, so far Gwen has raised an impressive £300 and counting – smashing her fundraising target! A total that could help give an hour’s support to over 13 families or even buy an incredible 60 picture books for seriously ill children; something that could help encourage a child’s early language skills and entertain a young seriously ill child in hospital.
Jamie, Gwen’s dad said:
“As expected she managed the 13 miles with ease and even managed a sprint to the finish.”
Jodie Egerton, Regional Fundraiser at Rainbow Trust said:
“Everyone at Rainbow Trust is extremely thankful to Gwen and her dad for running their half marathon in London. We are all so impressed that she decided to raise money for families as part of her school project and hope she encourages other people to challenge themselves to do the same. We would like to thank Gwen for raising over £300 and helping us raise awareness of the work that Rainbow Trust do. The support we receive from people like Gwen gives us the vital funding to continue supporting families in need.”
You can check out Gwen’s progress and help her raise even more funds for seriously ill children and their families here: justgiving.com/fundraising/Gwen-O-Keefe
Watch the moment Gwen completed her half marathon
The moment Gwen passes the finish line and is greeted by two-year-old sister Drew and Rebecca, her mum.
