Leeds Rhinos Foundation would like to say a huge thank you to Michael Pullan and his group of friends for completing a gruelling ‘Lake District 3000’ fundraising challenge this weekend in support of our charity.
The eight walkers completed over 16 hours of hiking up a total ascent over 2670m on four different peaks all standing at over 3000ft tall. The challenge saw them climb to the peaks of Scafell, Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Skiddaw all in one day, with the soaring temperatures this weekend making it an even more daunting task for the group.
But having supported his father through the In Touch dementia support group following his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Michael says that this was a challenge that was more than fit for the cause.
Explaining the reasons for the fundraising on his Virgin Money Giving page, Michael said: “Since my dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the Leeds Rhinos Foundation have been absolutely amazing. So when a friend suggested doing some fundraising by means of a ridiculous challenge, I obviously agreed. To give something back to this great organisation would mean a lot to all of us involved.
“Before I spoke to our nurse, I’d never even heard of the Foundation. She pointed us in their direction to attend In Touch, a monthly group for rugby fans living with dementia to relive their favourite memories. It has been great to meet people in similar situations, and the friends made have been a massive help to us throughout this period.
“The Foundation provide so much more than the group we attend and their initiatives help all areas of the community in Leeds. That’s why I’d ask you all to take a look at their Facebook page to see what they do, it’s truly amazing the difference they make!
“It was a long and tiring day but extremely worthwhile! I hope that we’ve earned the money that’s been raised, which shows just what a fantastic effort it has been from everyone involved.”
Amy Livingstone, Health Improvement Officer at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, commented: “We would like to say a huge well done to Michael and his friends for completing such a difficult challenge (and in such hot weather!) this weekend.
“The money raised as a result of the teams achievements helps us to continue supporting Michael’s father and others on our In Touch group and therefore a massive thank you also goes to everyone who donated to the cause. We look forward to the In Touch group getting together again at the stadium to celebrate Michael’s achievements.”
So far the team have managed to raise over £1,400 for Leeds Rhinos Foundation, with a final target of £2,000 laid down.
If you would like to make a donation to Michael and the ‘Lake District 3000’ walkers, please click HERE to visit their fundraising page.
On behalf of everyone at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, we would like to extend a huge thank you to Michael and his friends for completing this challenge to raise vital funds for our charity, which will support the work we do throughout Leeds and beyond to change lives through sport.
For more information on how you can support Leeds Rhinos Foundation through fundraising activities, please click HERE or email tracey.mearns@leedsrhinosfoundation.org.