Organisers of a 10km run raising funds to support a 23-year-old who underwent life-changing amputations following an aggressive infection earlier this year have thanked everyone who took part in the fundraiser after it drew hundreds of Islanders to Le Braye on Sunday morning.
‘Run for Lily’, which was followed by a cake sale, was held to help Lily McGarry get “the very best care possible”.
The Cardiff University medical student was rushed to hospital in January, suffering from meningococcal septicaemia – an aggressive infection.
Despite suffering two cardiac arrests, Lily fought for her life, but the infection caused severe blood flow issues and she is now a quadruple amputee as a result.
One of Lily’s friends, Daisy McAllister, organised Sunday’s event to help bolster donations to an online fundraising page set up to assist with the purchase of advanced prosthetics and ongoing care that the former JCG pupil will need to regain her independence.
Speaking to the JEP after the event, Daisy said that she was “blown away by everyone’s kindness”.
“It was a really lovely atmosphere and people were so generous baking and donating.”
The fundraiser has seen over £340,000 donated so far.
Lily’s father, Stuart, thanked everyone who turned up on Sunday morning and said that his daughter felt “so loved”.
JCG principal Carl Howarth, who was among the hundreds of Islanders who attended the fundraiser, said: “Friends are here, teachers are here, former students are here – it’s the most marvellous turnout for her.
“We can’t begin to imagine what Lily has gone through and we are just sending all of our love to her.
“One day she will be running with everyone else along this beach.”
DONATE…
You can donate to Lily’s fundraising page here.
Lily’s family have asked the public to avoid contacting her directly while she remains in a vulnerable position.
