DOING IT FOR DAD
Son completes tough two-day fundraising challenge
As readers of The Voice will know, on 22nd September, 2021 the paper’s Founding Editor, Donald Moore, died off the coast of Morgan Bay, South Africa, drowning mere metres from the safety of the beach.
The tragedy also claimed the life of Moore’s dear friend, Emanuel Manferrari.
Although the two well-known Francistowners were in their 70s, (knowing Mr Moore, he would want it pointed out he was only just in his 70s!) both were excellent swimmers.
Indeed, after relocating to the Eastern Cape following his retirement in 2014, Moore’s daily routine involved a dip in the sea.
However, like countless others before them, the pair were overpowered by the strong currents and dangerous riptides notorious in that particular stretch of the Indian Ocean, known as the ‘Wild Coast’.
To reduce the risk of more lives being lost in these stunning but often deadly waters, Manferrari and Moore’s families are raising funds for a defibrillator to be kept in Morgan Bay Hotel, which overlooks the beach.
“It’s possible a defibrillator, a machine which can help a heart start beating again, might have saved them. Funds will also go towards improved signage warning swimmers of the hidden dangers that lurk just below the sea’s surface. If we can raise enough, we also intend to pay for education on sea safety in local schools and emergency first aid training for the lifeguards that patrol the area,” explained Moore’s second-born son, Seamus, who this weekend completed a grueling 48-hour running challenge to raise awareness of the fund-raising initiative.
The former John Mackenzie School (JMS) pupil, who now resides in the United Kingdom and works for the Royal Air Force (RAF), ran four miles (6.5km) every four hours over the course of two days.
In total, the 36-year-old covered 78km, just shy of two marathons.
“It was tough, especially the late night runs. However, it was for a great cause in memory of two special souls who are sorely missed, so there was no question of quitting. Hopefully, we can prevent others from feeling the pain of losing a loved one in this devastating way,” said Seamus, who was quick to thank his colleagues and girlfriend for joining him on some of the runs.
With the donations already pouring in, the fitness fanatic appealed to readers of The Voice to dig into their pockets if they can.
“I realise times are hard but ‘every little helps’ as the old clichés goes. Both my father and Emanuel were famous for their generous hearts, especially in Francistown where they lived for many years. This would be a beautiful way to honour them and will undoubtedly save lives,” he said, ending the interview to go for a well-earned nap.
Those interested in donating can do so at: https://whydonate.com/ en/fundraising/defibrillator-fundraiser.