Successful London Marathon ballot runners urged to support disabled children’s charity.
With the results of the Virgin Money London Marathon public ballot being announced between Wednesday 30th September and Wednesday 7th October, a national children’s charity is appealing to the 20,000 lucky runners who are successful in the draw, to run in the event on its behalf.
The support of successful runners, they say, would help the charity to raise the vital funds needed to provide equipment, therapies and treatments to disabled children across the UK.
Caudwell Children, the national charity that provides practical and emotional support to disabled children and their families, is hoping that their appeal will persuade those who secure a place that their cause is worthy of support.
The charity says that with an average of 100,000 disabled children waiting for appropriate mobility equipment in the UK, and 25% of childhood cancer treatments only available overseas, more money is needed in order to improve the quality of life of disabled children.
Trudi Beswick, Chief Executive of Caudwell Children, is keen to get the support of the running fraternity. She said: “Each year millions of pounds are raised for charity at the London Marathon. This year I want to disturb the complacency around disability. Many people think that disabled children get all the support they need, through statutory measures, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
“When the starting pistol sets the runners on their way, on Sunday 24th April 2016, I want as many of them as possible to be fundraising for Caudwell Children so that we can support even more of the 770,000 disabled children in the UK.”
Caudwell Children say that they offer excellent fundraising support, allocating a dedicated fundraiser to each runner participating on behalf of the charity. They also provide runners with a Fundraising Pack, containing a selection of materials and tips that will help them in their efforts.
Trudi believes that by helping to raise much needed funds for disabled children, runners will have the experience of a lifetime. As she explained: “For many this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Runners are desperate to fulfil their ambition of taking part in one of the greatest sporting events on the planet.
“When they finish the race their sense of achievement will be undeniable. However, if they add the charitable element of helping Caudwell Children to raise the funds needed to deliver therapies, treatments, equipment and fully supported holidays to disabled children, their achievement will be even more compelling because of its legacy.”
To register to join the Caudwell Children Virgin Money London Marathon Running Team email: challenges@caudwellchildren.com or call Kirsten Greaves on 01782 600435 or 07964 757282.