THE partner and son of a ‘super fit’ Islander who died suddenly this summer have stepped up to take his place in a ‘gruelling’ charity challenge next month.
Steve De Sousa – described by his family as an ‘accomplished athlete’ who lived a healthy lifestyle – died on 1 July, aged 54.
Now his partner Alexis Dolling (52) and 22-year-old son Ollie are set to compete in his memory in the 20km Swim Run Jersey event on 9 September.
The pair set out to raise £1,000 for their chosen charity, Brightly Jersey, which helps children and young people, but have already surpassed £3,500.
Ms Dolling said she was ‘overwhelmed’ by the response, and added: ‘Over 100 people have contributed, and it’s not only the amounts that they’ve donated which are humbling, but the number of people sponsoring us. There’s a lot of love out there for us, and a lot of people are suffering grief as a result of Steve’s passing.’
She continued: ‘Steve always used to help other people, even if it was just a word of encouragement, and it was never about him. Their support reflects his enthusiasm and positivity.’
Discussing their decision to support Brightly, Ms Dolling said: ‘Steve’s childhood was very humble and he often spoke with Ollie about the challenges he faced growing up.
‘Steve was a talented footballer and he shared stories of how his teachers had often helped him by providing kit and taking him to matches. These helping hands enabled Steve to have these sporting opportunities, representing the school and developing into an accomplished athlete across a number of sports.
‘What that teacher did for Steve is what we want to do now, to pay along the favour.
‘Brightly is a charity specifically for children and young people in, or on the edge of, the care system and they provide grants to enhance childhoods and enable independence.
‘Ollie feels that Steve would be a strong supporter of Brightly and that the work they do would have resonated with him.’
The course around the north coast is a continuous run and swim, with five swim legs totalling 4.5km and six run legs totalling 15.5km.
Those who wish to donate can visit the Brightly Facebook page for the link.
