After losing family members to cancer, and having a friend whose cancer had recently returned, ten year old Durlston School pupil, Izzy started to think of ways to help.
Izzy, a keen swimmer decided to raise money through her passion for swimming, and completed a total of 821 lengths of the pool, which is 20.5kms or 12.75miles! Izzy’s fantastic effort has raised a staggering £1586.22 for local charity Abby’s Heroes. Every Wednesday between September and Christmas (after her 45 minute swimming lesson) Izzy swam as many lengths as she could. On many of the weeks, Izzy was joined by her swimming buddies who took it in turns to swim alongside her to offer their support.
On completing the challenge Izzy said “When I decided to fundraise for Abby’s Heroes, my aim was to raise £600, but in the end it was over double that, I really didn’t expect to raise that much money!”
Izzy and Durlston School’s Headmaster, Mr May presented the cheque during The Chapel assembly to David Fawcett, Abbey’s Heroes’ Corporate and Community Fundraiser. David said “We are so grateful for the donation, as a small charity we rely heavily on individual and corporate fundraising. The money will make a huge difference to us”
Mr May praised Izzy’s attitude and determination, expressing that Izzy has demonstrated the Durlston values and has always remained true to the Durlston motto ‘Erectus non Elatus” (Proud but not boastful).
Abby’s Heroes helps and supports children and their families who come under the care of the Piam Brown and the Teenagers and Young Adults (TYA) wards in Southampton General Hospital. They offer financial and practical help, and most importantly, the opportunity to make lasting memories.
Find out more at: www.abbysheroes.org
