Run in memory of tragic Jake, 2
Reporter: by BEATRIZ AYALA
Date published: 22 July 2009
THE family of a two-year-old who died from an undiagnosed brain tumour last year have organised a fundraising run and walk in his memory.
Jake Kershaw died suddenly last September.
His grandmother Lynda Wakerley (60), of Downhill Close, Oldham, paid tribute to him in the Oldham Chronicle last year, describing him as a “beautiful and perfect” grandson.
Now her son, David Kershaw, Jake’s father, has organised the 4.9-mile event to be held only days before what would have been his third birthday.
Mr Kershaw, from Moston, is hoping to raise £50,000 and is looking for people to sign up and take part.
He said: “The past year has been awful.
“Jake’s third birthday is coming up on August 11.
“Life is empty without him, nothing is the same.
“When we go out with the family, someone is always missing.”
The event, which will be held on August 2, will start at the City of Manchester Stadium in Eastlands and finish at Old Trafford football ground.
A fun-day will then be held at Old Trafford with auctions, raffle and a balloon launch.
Mr Kershaw said he hoped the walk would help raise awareness of brain tumours, encourage early diagnosis, and stop more families going through what they had.
He said: “I’m hoping to have 500 taking part with the aim of raising £50,000 for The New Children’s Hospital Appeal and the Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Trust.
“I’m hoping to make it an annual event and its a good way of keeping his memory alive.”
For more information, to register for the event or to make a donation visit www.jakekershaw.co.uk
Volunteers wardens are also needed to help with the run so anyone interested should contact David on 07846 832 414.
