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A youngster from Stockport has raised over £1,000 for Seashell – an organisation her mum says is ” a community which sees her, supports her and believes in her”.
Emily is just eight years old, but when she signed up to our recent Tri Seashell event, she wanted to make it an opportunity to give back to Seashell.
Last year Emily was diagnosed with an extremely rare, complex medical condition that affects her in lots of different ways, including her motor skills. She has had a busy year of hospital appointments and investigations and as she also has autism, this has sometimes felt difficult and overwhelming for her.
But being the determined young girl she is, that hasn’t stopped Emily at all and she put lots of energy into taking part in Tri Seashell.
Her mum Anna said: “She used to absolutely hate swimming. But she started having lessons at Seashell and she absolutely loves it.
“It hasn’t just meant her swimming has improved, it has also changed her confidence. She looks forward to her lessons so much.”
On Sunday, 15th June Emily took part in Tri Seashell and took on running, cycling and swimming challenges. She was joined by her older sister Isla (aged 10) and mum and dad Anna and Alistair. At the end of the event, Emily received a medal and certificate and had a special mention in the award ceremony. At the time, her fundraising was at just over £700. But now thanks to some additional donations, and those who were able to contribute Gift Aid, her total is now over £1,000.
Her mum Anna added: “One thing has made a huge difference to Emily is finding a community that sees her, supports her and believes in her. That community is the Active team at Seashell.
“They offer inclusive swimming lessons and other activities and they have welcomed Emily with open arms. They’re not only helped her grow in confidence but also helped her discover just how strong and determined she really is.
“We’re so proud of her.”
You can visit Emily’s JustGiving Page here.
Below is a video with highlights from the Tri Seashell event, including Emily receiving her certificate and medal…