Gill Potter and Trina Riley, two of the individuals Potens’ support in Wirral, took part in their first race for Life event at the end of June to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Race for Life is a series of fundraising events for women only, organised by Cancer Research UK. They involve running, jogging or walking a 5-10 kilometre courses and raising sponsorship for research into cancer.
Service Manager, Justyna Karbowska explains: “In a discussion Gill and Trina decided they wanted to take part in ‘Race for Life’ to raise money for Cancer Research. Both individuals have lost close family members to cancer and wanted to raise money fighting this horrible illness.”
Gill is blind and Trina uses a wheelchair – but this made them more determined to achieve their goal, and with support from their team they successfully made it over the finish line!
Gill and Trina enrolled on-line for the 10k ‘Race for Life’ in Birkenhead Park on the 25th of June at 11.00. Reality kicked in when the team received their sponsorship forms and ‘Race for Life’ T- shirts.
“They wanted to raise as much money as they could, so came up with a fantastic idea to collect money from neighbours and friends. This was also a good way to introduce themselves to neighbours and increase their community presence. The neighbours were really friendly, generous and supportive.” Justyna explains.
On the day Gill, Trina and the team supporting them were so excited and ready for the adventure. Everyone put their T- shirts on, got their refreshments ready and headed off – full of energy and determination. Justyna adds; “The atmosphere was amazing. At the end Gill and Trina received medals which they are very proud of and we took lots of pictures to remind us about this special day.”
All in all, the girls raised a total of £200 and are now busy planning next year’s race – deciding that this will be an annual fundraising event.
Justyna adds; “This story shows you that by determination you can achieve so much in your life and a disability can’t stop you!”
Well done to Gill and Trina – an amazing achievement!
