Schoolgirls take on running challenge to raise funds for Motor Neurone Association after their uncle diagnosed with disease
Schoolgirls Annie Bourne and Layla Kulik have taken on a running challenge to help raise funds for the Motor Neurone Association after their uncle, Mark Lythgoe, from Cannock, was diagnosed with the disease.
The two ten-year-olds decided to set themselves the challenge of running two miles every day during March and initially set their fundraising target at £200.
However, they have already smashed that target in just two weeks and gained donations through a JustGiving page on Facebook of more than £3,000.
Rain or shine Annie, from Lichfield, and Layla, from Great Wyrley, set out running each day determined to complete their challenge at the end of the month.
Now they are hoping even more donations will flood in from people to help further research and awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.
Mark, aged 39, was diagnosed with the disease last October.
'Amazing support'
He said: "I have found it extremely difficult for myself and my family to come to terms with things and it has been made more difficult with all the Covid-19 restrictions which slowed down diagnosis and appointments.
"The Association has been amazing in offering support both personally and financially."
Daniel Murray, aged 32, Mark's partner of 12 years and carer, said: "Mark's two nieces really wanted to do all they could help and in two weeks have raised more than £3,000.
"It really is an amazing achievement and even more so when you consider that Layla suffers from cystic fibrosis and rain or shine they are both out there running.
"The support from family, friends and the local community has also been amazing.
"The Motor Neurone Disease Association is very much underfunded as it is such a rare thing.
"We are just hoping to raise as much money as possible to help fund research to find a cure and raise awareness."
By Sue Smith
