A London Broncos supporter who will participate in next month’s St Helen’s 10k in aid of Derian House Children’s Hospice has been backed by Jermaine Coleman and his squad.
Jane Miller decided to enter the annual event at short notice after reading about Ava-Marie Flavell, who was born with Edwards Syndrome and sadly passed away in February 2018.
Ava-Marie and her family were supported by Derian House, which works to provide end-of-life care to more than 400 children and young people across the north-west.
The charity operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering palliative care, respite days, day care and holidays. Its services cost more than £5,000,000 each year to fund, with 12% of that figure support by the Government.
Jane had hoped to raise £200 by completing the 10-kilometre course on Sunday, March 6. But she has already surpassed her target with the current total standing at £315. She hopes her efforts will help other families to benefit from Derian House and its life-changing services.
“I never had the priviledge to meet the precious Ava-Marie, but I’ve got to know her family and love reading their stories and seeing their pictures,” said Jane. “I want to help keep her memory alive by raising vital funds for other children and families who use Derian House Children’s Hospice.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has generously donated to my fundraising page so far, your support will help make a real difference.”
News of Jane’s fundraising efforts has spread across the Broncos’ camp with Head Coach Jermaine Coleman and scrum-half Oli Leyland offering their messages of support.
Coleman said: “What Jane is doing is fantastic and everyone at London Broncos would like to wish her the very best of luck at the St Helen’s 10k.
“Rugby League is a tremendously community-spirited sport with fans going above and beyond each year in support of great causes like Derian House Children’s Hospice. We’ll be keeping a close eye on her progress – go and smash it, Jane!”
Oli Leyland added: “The story of Ava-Marie really touched Rugby League fans across the UK when she sadly passed away four years ago.
“I’ve watched clips online of the impact Derian House has on families in need of support, their work is truly inspirational. Jane has already smashed the £300 mark, hopefully she can reach her next milestone soon.”
London Broncos fans wishing to donate to Jane’s charity run in aid of Derian’s House Children’s Hospice can do so by visiting her JustGiving page here.
Further information about Derian House Children’s Hospice is available via its website Derian House Childrens Hospice – Providing respite and end-of-life care. Alternatively, you can learn what the charity means to the people it benefits by watching this video: