A Solent University student from Peacehaven in East Sussex is taking on a series of 5km runs every day in February in order to raise funds and awareness for the charity that supported his late grandfather, John Nunney, following his lost battle with Covid-19.
20-year-old Jacob Nunney will be joined by some of his university housemates as he runs 140km in the month of February and raises money for Blind Veterans UK.
He says:
“After my grandfather lost his sight the charity helped him out massively but since being at uni I’ve noticed that not many people know about them or the amazing work they do.
“My grandfather used to look forward to visiting their training centre in Brighton so much. When he got back and told me what he’s been up to, I just couldn’t believe it. Everything from rifle shooting to arts and crafts, the charity is just incredible at getting blind veterans back on their feet and doing things they probably never imagined they would be able to do again.
He continues:
“During lockdown my fitness has gone down for sure. So later in the month it’s going to get very challenging. But when I finish, I know 100% that it will be the best feeling that I’ve had in years. I’ll be thinking of my grandad all the way through and it’ll be an honour to pass on the funds to the charity that helped him out so much.
“So far I’ve raised £1,200 towards my £1,400 goal. Any support that anyone can offer to help me hit my target would be hugely appreciated.”
Please visit Jacob’s fundraising page here: gofundme.com/f/for-john-nunneu
Blind Veterans UK has adapted its service to support its 5,000 beneficiaries, 90% of whom are over 70 and at an increased risk from Covid-19. The National Support Service has and will continue to help blind veterans through this period of social isolation.
Nicky Shaw, Blind Veterans UK Director of Operations said:
“Living in isolation, blind veterans need our help right now with daily tasks, such as the shopping, and constant emotional support through this difficult time. So we are temporarily changing our service and mobilising our staff to provide practical, essential support to help the most vulnerable.
“There is so much that we can and must do to support blind veterans to help them maintain physical and emotional wellbeing, and to feel safe, reassured and cared for during this crisis.”
You can keep updated on Blind Veterans UK’s response to Covid-19 at blindveterans.org.uk/coronavirus where you can also find out more about supporting the charity to make this new service possible.
