Congratulations to Michael for this incredible achievement!
We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on one of our most dedicated and inspiring supporters, Children in Care Team Manager, Michael Allcock, who once again went the distance for Mersey Cares (quite literally!) by completing the Manchester Marathon.
Michael’s incredible effort has not only added another achievement to his impressive fundraising portfolio but also helped raise funds to support the work we do across the Trust and our mental health and community services.
Ahead of the event Michael shared:
“Running a marathon has been a challenge I have always wanted to overcome and having the opportunity to do this is daunting as well as exciting,”
“Working for the Knowsley Looked After team I have the privilege of supporting and helping some of the most vulnerable children in our society. Many of the children we support come into care with very little and raising donations will help us purchase items to support their emotional health as well as their development.”
So in a bid to do just that on a bright and sunny Sunday in April, Michael and his brother Andrew (who was running in support of Alder Hey), laced up their running shoes to run 26 miles through the streets of Manchester.
Catching up with Michael after the event he told us it was "one of the hardest things I have done in my life and I couldn't wait to get to the finish line!"
"The thing that kept me running was knowing how amazing everyone had been with their donations and messages of support and I kept this thought throughout the run- it definitely helped.
The day was a mix of emotions for me but the atmosphere was unreal, the sweets, drinks, ice pops and the sprays of water from hoses as well as shouts of encouragement provided a needed boost- especially near the end.
I can't thank everyone enough for the donations, it means so much!!!"
A dedicated Charity Champion
While the marathon was arguably Michael’s most demanding fundraiser yet, it’s just one example of his ongoing dedication to Mersey Cares. He has participated in numerous charity challenges and continues to play a key role in raising the charity’s profile. As a proud Mersey Cares Charity Champion— pledging his ongoing support —Michael consistently goes above and beyond to advance our mission and to raise funds for the children he supports. Over the past 18 months, he’s taken part in events such as the BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K, the Liverpool Half Marathon, the Liverpool Santa Dash, and the demanding Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Through these efforts, he has raised an incredible £1,388 for Mersey Cares!
"I truly love my job. I've seen and listened to so many sad stories and fundraising enables me to raise some money so we can give a little something back.”
Away from the physical challenges, Michael has also been instrumental in the success of some of our most important campaigns supporting children in care. From being a driving force for our annual Secret Santa Appeal to playing a vital role in our first ever Easter Egg Appeal, and championing our Give a Gift to a Child in Care appeal, Michael’s passion shines through every time – and we’re so grateful for all he does.
“We simply couldn’t do what we do without people like Michael,” said Joanne Watson, Mersey Cares’ charity lead. “His dedication, warmth, and tireless enthusiasm for our cause is truly and inspiration – and his fundraising and efforts to support children in care make such a difference to young lives. Thank you, once again to Michael, and to all of your friends, family and colleagues who have donated."
Truly a charity champion in every sense of the word.
If you'd like to show your support for Michael through a donation, head to his fundraising page and help make a real difference!