One of our Activ8 Health and Fitness advisors will be completing a 12 hour ‘Burpeethon’ at Billingham Forum on Saturday 9th June to raise funds for a young boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and lower limb spasticity. Paul Murphy is a Health and Fitness Advisor at Activ8 Health and Fitness who has recently participated in a charity bike ride from Stockton to Whitby to raise much needed funds for 5 year old Alfie John Watson. Alfie was diagnosed at the age of 3 and is in major need of a complex spinal procedure that will cost a staggering £35,000. Alfie will spend his time recovering at St James University Hospital in Leeds with further recovery and adaptations to be made to the family home.
Paul explains, “I first got involved through a close friend who is Alfie’s Aunty and also a member of the gym in Billingham Forum. I really want to make a difference for Alfie and raise as much as possible to get the family to their target and if I can do that by putting myself through what will no doubt be 12 hours of torture, then I am happy to do so.”
The event will take place in Billingham Forum’s large atrium space so that the general public can take part and show their support. Paul has already received a large number of pledges from people offering their time to participate alongside him and the response has been overwhelming.
Billingham Forum Facility Manager Roy Broadbent added, “The response has been fantastic and it’s great to see everyone getting behind Paul and supporting such a worthwhile cause. The challenge really shows the strength and power of our community and will certainly help to raise awareness for Alfie and his family.”
Paul will be taking pledges to help him out on the day, which you can sign up to in our venues at Forum, Splash and Thornaby Pavilion. Also, donating to the just giving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alfie-john-watson.
So let’s speak to the man himself taking on this epic challenge!
What made you think of this challenge Paul?
“I actually love Burpees and I really wanted to pick something that would really push me. If you ask any gym or class going for their worst exercise almost everyone would say a Burpee”
Why did you choose to raise money for Alfie’s cause?
“I got involved through a close friend who is Alfie’s Aunty and also a member of the gym but it really stems from wanting to help another worthwhile cause as I do try to get involved in any charity events which come my way. I have young kids myself and it really makes me feel thankful and thoughtful towards those less fortunate. I’ve always been a firm believer in karma and I’d like to think that if I needed the help for any reason, either for myself or my family the support would be there from others. I really want to make a difference for Alfie and raise as much as possible to get the family to their target. If I can do that by putting myself through what will be 12 hours of torture then I am happy to do so.”
Have you got many pledges yet?
“Pledges are coming along well but you can still put your name down or come along on the day to join in or motivate!”
How are you feeling about the challenge are you prepared for it?
“Nervous excitement would be the best way to describe my current feelings but I am mostly looking forward to the pushing myself to the limit of my physical and mental capabilities….literally. I’ve always had an unusual love for Burpees whether it be part of my own training or as part of Personal Training or group training sessions. My love may wane a little after the challenge though!!”
The Burpeethon is just one of many ways that the community have been raising money. From a sponsored bike ride from Stockton to Whitby, bag packing and collection at Tesco, DPD sponsored football match, Middlesbrough Council dress down day, bake sales and collection days. Cleveland Police Bike ride and North Ormesby day/night fundraiser.
Plus various others including: Raffles, Blind cards, Facebook Bonus Balls and Fundraising evenings.
