A SUPERHERO is thanking Solihull residents who have helped his mission supporting sick children over the past 10 years.
Matt Denning, who is usually seen dressed as Captain America outside of Game in Solihull, been marking the occasion creating lockdown hampers for families and the elderly.
He has also been creating Brave Bands for children to wear when they are suffering from the side affects of chemotherapy – one of these can be hair loss.
His original plans to throw a party to celebrate with the families and supporters have been put on ice due to the pandemic.
Matt started up the charity in 2011 after his Grandad was diagnosed with cancer he raised funds for the hospital and met a sick child and he continues to support sick children and those with complex needs.
Over the years Matt has raised more than £300,000 and has used this money taking children to Lapland at Christmas times, Disney Land and he has bought a caravan holiday home in Skegness for families to go for respite.
Matt has raised funds by taking on mountain climbs, marathons and sky dives.
But Solihull children have also helped him along the way.
Matt said: “Many children from Solihull have also taken part in the Hair Donations Awards Ball over the last seven years and over 4,000 inches of hair have been donated towards making wigs and over 460 children have been involved.”
Much like other charities all of Matt’s public fundraising events were cancelled due to the covid-19 pandemic but instead of losing faith Matt and his team set up a food bank last March and have helped more than 4,000 people.
The team have also been sending seasonal hampers out to seriously ill children of the charity as well as many gifts to keep them occupied during lockdown while they are in hospital.
Matt said: “Sadly we do lose some children and it is the hardest part of running a charity, being invited to the special send offs and being treated like I’m part of the family is the most rewarding and touching moments.
“With over 5,000 supporters on the charity page they have played a part over the years and have all been an incredible support, including the many companies who have got involved and supported.
“It is massively appreciated.
“I will always have my grandad and all of the children supported over the years in my mind and they will forever be a part of the mission when making many more smiles glow.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart to my amazing supportive mother and brother, all of the trustees, friends and supporters and company sponsors that have supported over the years.”
For more visit www.goldengiving.com/charity/matts-mission or to donate visit www.paypal.me/mattsmission
