On a very windy and rainy Sunday in October Pro2col MD James ran the London marathon for the Willow Foundation, although the race was very different this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Participants were invited to run, jog or walk from anywhere in the UK and record their times virtually having 24 hours to race the 26.2 miles.
This year has been tough for many people, but particularly for charities who have seen repeated disruption to their normal schedule of fundraising, having a knock-on effect for those who rely on them. This makes the amazing total of £1,893 raised by James especially important.
About the Willow Foundation
The Willow Foundation is the only national charity who have been working with seriously ill 16-40-year olds to provide uplifting Special Days. Since 1999 Willow have facilitated more than 17,000 of these special days which include day trips to the zoo, hotels, rugby matches and afternoon tea in London.
Often it is not the activity itself which makes these days so memorable, it is a chance to return to normal life, even if it’s just for a day, and for others it is their last chance to fulfil a dream. No matter the person’s condition special days aim to lift the spirits of ill young people and their loved ones, and be a source of much-needed strength in difficult times.
However due to the pandemic and related restrictions, over 700 young people have had their special days postponed. However, in the meantime special positivity packs have been given to those who missed out, providing a source of happiness even in such uncertain times. That is why the fundraising gained through the marathon is especially needed now to keep putting a smile on the faces of people who have had it particularly tough this year.
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Additionally, we would like to say a huge thank you to our friends at Flat White, Tuckton. Their coffee and cake morning has raised £674.18 for Team Willow.