Leicestershire father would walk 500 miles, and then 500 more for Rainbows
A Whetstone father has set himself the challenge of walking 1,083 miles to raise money for Rainbows.
Dave Wilson (56), who is also a Trustee of our charity, began the virtual trek from Land’s End to John O’Groats at the start of the year. He aims to complete the distance by the end of June. To date, he has raised more than £1,500.
Dave, who is the IT Director at Hollywood Bowl, felt the challenge was giving him a good focus during the difficult lockdown months. “It would be easy to say I will go out for a walk, but knowing I am going out and contributing is very satisfying,” said Dave. “I knew if I did every day, the miles would soon add up.”
Mainly walking around the surrounding areas of Whetstone, Dave tends to cover five miles each weekday and more at the weekends. He is being supported by his wife, Estelle, and daughter, Lucy (19), who sometimes join him.
“I have known about Rainbows and its work for many years so when I was given the opportunity to be a Trustee in October 2019, I jumped at it,” said Dave. “To give something back to Rainbows is phenomenal. You have to go round the hospice and see the facilities and the amazing work that is done there to really appreciate it.
“So many charities are struggling at the moment, including Rainbows, so for me to be able to raise money doing something I enjoy, is very rewarding.”
Jenny Perry, Rainbows Community Fundraiser, thanked Dave on behalf of everyone at the charity. She added: “As Dave says, we have faced an incredibly tough year in fundraising at the hospice and we are so grateful for everyone’s support. What Dave is taking on is an incredible feat and we wish him well as he covers the miles.
“Without people like Dave, we wouldn’t be able to raise the necessary funds we need to care for hundreds of the region’s children with life-limited illnesses, as well as supporting their families through the most difficult of times.”
To sponsor Dave, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Dave-Wilson16
