‘Claire’s Army’ Raises £23,200 Through Year of Walks for Motor Neurone Disease Charity
More than £23,000 has been raised for the Motor Neurone Disease Association after a Teesside woman completed a year-long walking challenge in honour of her inspirational best friend.
When Claire Park, headteacher of Hartburn Primary School in Stockton, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), her best friend Gillian Ball pledged to organise one sponsored walk every month for a year.
Twelve months later, Gillian, together with Claire’s friends, relatives, colleagues and supporters, has raised £23,200 for the MND Association, helping to fund research into the condition and support people affected by it.
The challenge concluded with a three-mile walk in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, beginning and ending on the seafront near the town’s pier.
More than 100 people took part in the final event, with many wearing clothing identifying them as members of “Claire’s Army”.
Claire met the walkers at the finish line, where she was surrounded by friends, family members and colleagues from across the Prince Regent Street Trust.
Gillian said: “It’s incredible that we’ve got to the twelfth hike a year on from Claire’s diagnosis. It’s really overwhelming.
“More than 100 people turned out for this last one, which is a fantastic result – it’s a true reflection of Claire and just how many lives she’s touched, and continues to touch.
“She’s such an inspiration.”
Claire has dedicated her career to education and is widely respected for the support she has given to children, families and colleagues throughout the school community.
Julia Armstrong, chief executive of the Prince Regent Street Trust, said: “Claire has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children and supporting colleagues, so it has meant a great deal to see that same kindness and generosity returned to her.
“Gillian’s walks have brought together not just our school community, but friends, families and colleagues from across the Trust. It’s been wonderful to see such a remarkable show of support.”
Gillian had originally hoped the walks would raise £1,500, but the final total exceeded that target more than 15 times over.
She added: “I only set out to raise £1,500, so to have raised more than £23,000 is just incredible.
“Thank you to everyone for their support, for taking part, and to everyone who has donated.”
The MND Association funds and promotes research into motor neurone disease while providing information, practical support and campaigning on behalf of people living with the condition, their families and carers.
