Luke Set For Grand Test Around National Course

On Sunday 15th December, Gary's son Luke will be taking on the Run Aintree 10k to help raise vital funds for his Dad and the Gary Parkinson Trust.

Gary, who was a professional footballer for Middlesbrough, Southend United, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Preston North End and Blackpool, sadly suffered a severe brain stem stroke in September 2010.

As a result, he now suffers from a condition known as locked-in syndrome, which is complete paralysis of the body, apart from eye movements, which he uses to communicate.

Gary now requires 24-hour care at his home in Bolton and the use of a wheelchair to get about, and is in need of regular physio and neuro-rehabilitation sessions.

Luke said, "Unfortunately, in the past few months the NHS hasn't been able to fund my Dad's rehabilitation and care to the level we think he needs and deserves.

"We can sit around moaning about that or we can get on with it and raise some money to support him. I prefer to do the latter, which is why I'm sticking my trainers on and doing my bit for my Dad.

"We both love horse racing and the Grand National has always been a big day of the year in our family, so running around the racecourse at Aintree is a fitting place to try and raise a few quid.

"I can't promise I'll be jumping the fences in the same way as Tiger Roll or Red Rum, but as long I'm not a faller, I'll be happy.

"2019 has already been a fantastic year for the Gary Parkinson Trust, with some fantastic events like the Gary Parkinson Trophy and the Team of 86 Reunion, but one last push before the New Year would mean the world to me and all my family.

"I know money is tight for many at this time of year, but maybe forget the Christmas cards and donate a few pound to somebody who really does need it."

Luke is aiming to raise a minimum of £100 for the Gary Parkinson Trust from doing his run and you can on Luke's JustGiving page at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/run-aintree-for-parky

Thanks for your support!