Nan sparks £26k fundraiser

Six-year-old Rowan Pethard is being looked after by Great Ormond Street Hospital while he battles leukaemia.

His nana Sandra Brooke has been so impressed by the caring work of medical staff that she decided to set up a team to take part in Race for the Kids at Battersea Park, which raises funds for the famous children’s hospital.

On Sunday, June 7, a team of more than 60 adults, along with children and four legged friends, stepped out for the 5k fundraiser. Sandra, of Adeyfield, said: “I set the team up and called it Team Woody for RoRo, as my dog Woody is Rowan’s best pal.

“They all completed the course by either running, jogging, walking or scooting.

“Rowan’s nine-year-old brother ran it in 30 minutes and his grandad, who had a knee replacement in October, did very well to run the whole course. We have been overwhelmed by these fabulous people who have been unstinting in their support for this amazing hospital and for our Rowan, who is taking cancer treatment in his stride and being an absolute little hero.”

Rowan, who goes to Great Gaddesden School and lives in Boxmoor, is facing three years of treatment but his prognosis is good. The fundraising team initially set out to raise £1,000 but has so far raked in £26,912.

Sandra said: “This is a truly spectacular sum of money to raise. We thank everyone who took part or gave so generously.”