A primary school teacher will be taking on the Great North Run after being inspired by one of her pupils.
Ruth Alsop, a Year 4 teacher at Burnopfield Primary School in County Durham, will be raising funds for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation after teaching little Edward Muncaster last year.
Edward who is now ten, has Alagille syndrome, a rare and incurable genetic condition that affects his liver, heart, and lungs.
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Every week, 20 children in the UK are diagnosed with a life-threatening childhood liver disease.
“Edward's condition means that he sometimes can't do as much as a typical child of his age,” explained 30-year-old Ruth.
“I found that the Children's Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF) carries out vital work to support children and families with Alagille syndrome, alongside many other conditions. I felt that doing something as renowned as the Great North Run could go some way towards raising awareness and funds even further.”
And while Ruth admits that running is not her strong point, she is determined to complete this challenge:
“The school has been so supportive, I am honestly overwhelmed! Within the first weekend, I had reached my £350 target and the donations just kept on coming. Parents, staff, and members of the community have been so generous and supportive.”
Edward’s mum Rebecca, is also thrilled about the efforts the pupils and staff at the school are putting in.
“Edward has a lot to deal with on a day-to-day basis but he has just so much resilience and he’s so strong, he literally doesn’t let anything phase him, he just gets on with it.
“I am so proud of him and it’s wonderful to see his school showing support for him in this way.”
Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation commented: “It is wonderful to hear that not only does Edward enjoy school but that he has inspired Ruth to take on this challenge for us. This truly is a fantastic example of community fundraising, and we wish her all the best for next weekend.”
You can support Ruth’s Great North Run by going to: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/missalsopgnr .
For more information on CLDF visit childliverdisease.org .
