Sisters Bridie and Cheryl Starr are running the TCS London Marathon for the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Bridie, 36, and Cheryl, 42, from Essex have been inspired to join Team RNIB in aid of Bridie’s daughter, Mia, who lost her sight at 16 months old in 2021 because of a collection of tumours along her optic pathway.
They will be running to support the charity’s mission of creating an inclusive world and to help raise awareness of the challenges blind and partially sighted people face every day.
Mia, now 3 years old, was diagnosed with the genetic condition neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). She lost her sight overnight and was on chemotherapy for eighteen months.
“I want Mia to grow up in a world where she can access, and experience things, just like everyone else,” said mum Birdie, an Intensive Care Unit nurse, pictured above with her daughter.
“That’s why we’ve chosen to run for RNIB because the charity wants to create a world without barriers for people living with sight loss.”
The sisters have raised over £4,000 for RNIB, beating their fundraising goal thanks to friends and family, who have been supporting tirelessly and will also be there on April 21 to cheer Bridie and Cheryl on.
“Running a marathon is undoubtedly a huge challenge for anyone so we are very grateful to have Bridie and Cheryl join Team RNIB this year for the TCS London Marathon.” said Chris Perrin, RNIB’s Head of Supporter Led Fundraising.
“The funds raised will help the charity support the estimated two million people living with sight loss in the UK.”
To sponsor Bridie please donate at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/bridie-starr-1691738186439
To sponsor Cheryl, please donate at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/cheryl-starr-1693857208612