Targets tumble on fundraiser inspired by ex-schoolmate
TEACHERS, friends and former pupils of Thorngrove School, Highclere, completed a half-marathon around the village on Sunday to raise thousands of pounds for charity.
The 13.1-mile run was organised by eight girls who formerly attended the school together.
They decided to take part to help raise money for the chosen charity of their friend Steph Cameron, who was head girl at the school before falling ill.
Steph has been diagnosed with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome, a rare condition where the heart rate increases on changing posture from lying to sitting up or standing.
She also suffers with epilepsy and is also being tested to see if she has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a group of hereditary disorders that affect the connective tissues of the body.
Steph, who relies on a wheelchair and is being cared for by her parents, chose the charity Medical Detection Dogs, which helps people with similar conditions to hers live a more fulfilled life when they get older.
The girls originally set themselves a target of raising £1,000, but exceeded that within days, so they set a new goal of £4,000, and have now smashed that too, with donations currently topping £6,500
The team of eight girls comprised Phoebe Baynham, her twin sister Poppy, Lucy Riley, Tabby Hislop, Cat Sawyer, Alice Wood, Tilly Jones and Eliza Rolfe.
Unfortunately, Cat was unable to run due to illness, but is determined to complete the half-marathon, having played a pivotal role in raising funds.
Phoebe said: “In lockdown I got into running quite a lot and I thought it would be quite nice to do something for a charity that helps people like Steph.
“Steph is just the loveliest person. “I’ve known her since nursery, so virtually my whole life.
“She is always smiling, despite her illness, and she is incredibly uplifting, talented and funny.
“She gave a speech just before the run that was amazing and had most of the teachers in tears.
“The run itself was good. I think everyone enjoyed it and we set out at 8.45am so it wasn’t too hot.
“My mum, Susie, also took part and it was nice to do it alongside her.”
If you would like to donate and add to the fundraising total, visit https://uk.gofundme.com/f/z38egsupport-for-steph