Since their son Cameron died suddenly after having his very first asthma attack, Bridgnorth parents Ashley and Gemma Brown have fundraised tirelessly for Asthma UK. For the last 10 years, the pair and supporters have taken part in a huge number of runs and events – and Cameron’s father Ashley is set to take part in the Great Birmingham Run on Sunday 14 October, just as they reach their £100,000 target.
“We were utterly heartbroken when Cameron died,” says Gemma, whose other sons Matthew and Jason (pictured) also have asthma. “We’ve found much comfort in raising awareness and money for Asthma UK in the hope it would help other families – it became a really big part of our lives.”
They set out to reach an ambitious £100,000 target for Cameron’s Fund, including publishing a children’s book about the Asthma UK mascot, organising a virtual medal, and creating Christmas cards. Gemma ran the London Marathon in April, while Ashley’s Birmingham run comes just before Cameron’s 13th birthday in October. Cameron’s Fund has also been selected as charity of the year for Bridgnorth Sainsbury’s. You can visit the Cameron’s Fund website here.
Ashley says, “We took the final cheque down to Asthma UK in London to hand over in person and it was quite emotional. We never imagined our young son could have such an amazing legacy – his death touched so many people and we’ll be eternally grateful to everyone for their support.”
Asthma UK’s Louise Thomas adds, “It’s only thanks to the generous support of people like Gemma and Ashley that Asthma UK is able to continue helping the 5.4 million people in the UK who have asthma. Asthma attacks claim the lives of three people in the UK every day. That’s why our work is vital, to fund research into a cure and offer health advice to help people with asthma stay well.”
