BY RUNNING five kilometres a day throughout December, a senior lab technician at Specsavers Chelmsley Wood has raised an amazing £1,425 for the Alzheimer’s Society.
Dressed as Santa Claus, red hat and white beard included, Darren ran 103 miles in the hope of being able to donate £1,000 to the dementia charity.
However, thanks to the support of friends, family and customers, he smashed his original goal by £425.
While completing his last run of the month, Darren was even cheered on by a small, socially distanced audience at Warwick racecourse.
“I can’t believe the amount of support I’ve received,” he said.
“I hadn’t even started running and I’d already managed to raise £700, so to raise even more than the original goal is wonderful.
“I’d like to thank everyone who donated, to know I have such a supportive network in the local community is heart-warming.”
Lacing up her running shoes, Chelmsley Wood store director, Sarah Brain also joined Darren on one of the runs for moral support.
“We’re all incredibly proud of Darren,” she said.
“Helping others is a huge part of what we do at Specsavers, and Darren’s selflessness has certainly demonstrated that.
“It’s wonderful to see the team come together and support one of their own. It’s certainly ended a rather challenging year on a high.”
If you would still like to donate, you can give to Darren’s cause via his Just Giving Page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/darren-laffey1
Specsavers stores throughout England are remaining open for all eye care and hearing needs in accordance with government guidelines.
