Every day our supporters do incredible things for Alder Hey and we are forever humbled and grateful for their immense efforts. We have decided to celebrate one of our supporters each month and share their story. This month, for our very first Fundraiser of the Month Award, we have chosen an inspirational mum called Anna Waters.
Anna’s son Benny, who turned seven years old this week, is currently treated at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. His diagnosis was devastating for his mum Anna, but she said, “Benny is already blowing us away with his bravery and we are determined that he will smile at every opportunity throughout his treatment programme”.
Before Benny’s diagnosis, Anna had signed up to run the Chester Marathon. She said “My initial thought was just to cancel everything and running the marathon no longer featured on my radar after Benny’s diagnosis; but I have decided that rather than putting all that training to waste, I’m going to run it and raise funds for Alder Hey Charity”
The race organisers allowed Anna to ‘run your own way’ enabling her to run the official distance on her own route and still have it officially acknowledged. Anna explained:
“The thought of running in a large crowd and celebratory atmosphere just didn’t feel right for me. However, I was determined to channel the strength of our amazing boy and get it done for him and all the other children like him getting treatment at Alder Hey now and in the future.”
Anna has raised over £8000 for Alder Hey Charity and her determination and kindness will have a real impact on the hospital experience we can offer our brave young patients like Benny.
She told us “I honestly don’t know how our family would have got through the last few weeks without Benny’s incredible team at Alder Hey. It really is a special place and we are grateful that Benny’s treatment will be under the care of the team there.”
On behalf of everyone at Alder Hey, thank you Anna for your incredible fundraising. You are truly helping us to bring brighter futures to children and young people at Alder Hey.
About the Author
The Community Team
The Alder Hey Children's Charity Community Team love to share the stories of our remarkable community fundraisers - so email today [email protected]