Marathon dad raises over £15,000 for deaf children
Published Date: 12 Apr 2016A Belfast dad is running the Virgin London Marathon for us on Sunday 24 April and has already smashed his target to raise an astounding £15,000.
Graham Fitzgerald, 39, has been inspired to undertake the 26.2 mile running challenge because his youngest daughter Isla was recently diagnosed as deaf just before her third birthday.
With the help of the bi-lateral hearing aids that she now wears, Graham and his family hope Isla will have sufficient hearing to fully develop her speech and language and grow up to become a confident communicator.
Graham said: “I know how important it is that deaf children get the right support. With it, deaf children can do anything other children can do. The National Deaf Children’s Society has been a wonderful source of support to our family in the post diagnosis period and we have met many children and families who benefit enormously from their tireless work.
“As I am turning 40 this year, I was already considering a memorable challenge, so by trying to raise money for a charity close to my heart I now have all the motivation I need to run the marathon. I’m very much looking forward to the race and it’ll be nice seeing the London sights as I run past.”
Sponsor Graham at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/gfmarathon. And if he's inspired you to run for us in next year’s London Marathon, you can apply here: www.ndcschallenges.org.uk/london2017.
Laura Kennedy, our Head of Corporate Community and Events, commented: “We have been amazed by Graham’s efforts; £15,000 is one of the largest amounts an individual has ever raised for us so it is an outstanding achievement! 95% of our work is funded by the public, so people like Graham mean we can continue providing expert practical and emotional support to deaf children and their families.”
The National Deaf Children’s Society team of cheerers will be at the London Marathon at mile 25 to encourage runners along the final mile. If you want to join us, contact [email protected] or call 0207 014 1135 to sign up.