Take a moment to read the incredible fundraising story of Steven Gill. Over two years Steven, his friends, and his family have come together to take on the epic challenge which became the #59events.
“I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all of those who have supported the #59events and particularly to those who have been involved in and organised your own events.
As many of you will know, I started the events in memory of my Dad, Andrew Gill, who died as a result of Fabry disease, but throughout the campaign, it was also so special to pay homage to others affected too, such as the Camfield family - and the many other families who are part of the MPS community. I know my Dad would be super proud of you all, proud of his friends, rugby teammates, his family, and proud of my own friends, colleagues, and the MPS team I have worked with over the two years.
I have been blown away by your kindness. You have taught me how important it is to reach out to others. During difficult times, people might never know that we think of them and their families, but they will know - and remember - the acts of kindness we showed them.
Thanks to all of your support, we’ve not only raised an incredible awareness for the MPS Society UK but we’ve also raised an impressive £18,003 - a sum that will help to support individuals and families affected by Fabry and other rare genetic illnesses.
Although this is the end of this particular fundraising campaign, I’m looking forward to attending the Fabry Conference in March and connecting with the community further to know how we can continue to support our loved ones in the future.
In particular, I would like to send a special thanks to the following people:
Joe Thorpe, James Pender, Jo Froud, Cameron Shaw, Mary Smith, Lynden Whaley, Nick and Darren Horsfield, Ian and Neil Mattison, Nathan Davies, Steve Thackery, Andy Clegg, Mick Adamson, Paul Connell, Ben Robinson, Tom Davis, Andrey Dickson, Stuart Morley and all your cycling buddies, Jonathan Gledson, Neil Paddy Collins and many others at CRUFC; Chris Willet, Stephen Slinger, Ian Kirk, Clynt Hiscoe, and Ian Cocks and other golfing buddies; Steve Willet and his friends at ROAB; Jocelyn Keates, Becky Beeson and Rhia Arden at the MPS Society. And lastly to my family: my sister, Emma Westwood and brother-in-law, Stephen Westwood, my Mum, June Gill, my children and finally my wife, Rosanna Piper, my biggest supporter!”
We would like to say a huge thank you to Steven for his incredible fundraising efforts in memory of his father, Andrew Gill. Thank you from everyone at the MPS Society, and to everyone who got involved with your #59events. The Fundraising and Communications team have thoroughly enjoyed following and supporting your epic journey, along with your friends and family. You are an MPS Society fundraising hero and we will be forever grateful for what you have achieved and provided for other families and individuals affected by Fabry, MPS and related conditions.
