A carnival atmosphere will again be in place for Wigan’s third 10k run on September 6. If you want to join the party and pound the streets there is an opportunity to raise funds for local disabled children like three-year-old Lydia Rankin

Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children provides specialist equipment for children with disabilities and is a selected supporter charity for the Wigan 10k. The charity is appealing for more people to run for them and guarantees that every penny raised will be spent on under-19s in Greater Manchester.

Special disability equipment including wheelchairs, walkers, beds, seating and communication aids can help give children independence, keep them safe, relieve pain and overcome challenges. For instance, you could help a child be discharged from hospital, take their first steps or kick a football with their friends.

When Statutory Services are not able to help Newlife often steps in and the recently launched Newlife Greater Manchester Fund, www.newlifecharity.co.uk/greatermanchester, is currently looking to raise £41,793 to help 38 local families. So far £191,560 has been spent on 234 children in the area.

Wigan youngster Lydia Rankin is one of the children to have benefited. The three-year-old has a genetic disorder that affects he face and brain. She is no longer able to move her legs.

Most recently the charity provided a £1,993 specialist car seat for Lydia, with a specialist bed provided through Newlife’s Just Can’t Wait equipment loan service for families of life limited children. Both items were essential for Lydia’s well being as mum Ruth explains.

“Lydia can’t use any other seat and she can’t use any other type of bed,” she said. “The surgeon told us it is essential she is elevated as much as possible.

“Newlife were very quick to help us – their nurses were angels.”

The Wigan 10k route starts and finishes on Market Street in the town centre. After the event, runners are encouraged to stay in the town and enjoy live entertainment onstage and make use of the continental food markets.

All runners will receive a free finishers goody bag and medal.

If you would like to run the Wigan 10k for Newlife telephone the community fundraising team on 0800 988 4640 (free from UK landlines)

For more information about Newlife’s fundraising in the area click on to www.newlifecharity.co.uk/greatermanchester

Pictured: Lydia Rankin

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