AN EVESHAM fitness instructor is running the Cheltenham Half Marathon on Sunday (September 25) to raise funds for a disabled Vale boy to gain more space for his growing needs.
Anthea Farrow, who lives in Offenham Road, Evesham, and who runs various fitness and yoga classes at Evesham Leisure Centre and at The De Montfort School, is stepping out to help the campaign.
Anthea, 50, is supporting six-year-old Barney Gardner, who lives in Ashton-under-Hill with his parents Beverley and Andy, and who suffers from a rare condition called Lissencephaly, which literally means smooth brain.
Barney, who attends the Vale of Evesham School in Evesham, needs everything doing for him – he can’t feed himself, he can’t walk, and can only stand and hold his own weight with support for a very short space of time.
He cannot talk but has learnt to communicate well. He suffers with epilepsy and has seizures on a daily basis.
To help Barney’s development, Beverley and Andy want to make alterations to their house to provide a lift from downstairs up into his bedroom, a wet room and some internal movement of walls to make his room slightly larger.
After seeing the article in the paper, Ashton villagers raised £555 for the ‘Build for Barney’ campaign by holding a coffee morning and bring and buy sale.
Now Anthea who became friends with Beverley through one of her classes, is running the Cheltenham Half Marathon to raise funds for the appeal.
“Bev and I have become firm friends and I’ve met her husband and gorgeous Barney socially,” said Anthea.
“The family is an inspiration to me. Despite all the trials they go through, they are always smiling and never complaining.
“The money I raise will help towards making their lives a little bit easier – as Barney grows his need for a lift and more space in their home becomes more urgent.”
Donations are welcomed through gofundme.com – just search for Build For Barney.
Anyone else who might be able to support the ‘Build for Barney’ campaign can contact Beverley on 07799 672658 or e-mail [email protected]