A CEO is leading a charity challenge from John O' Groats to Lands' End to raise crucial funds for the cardiac ward at Birmingham Children's Hospital, after undergoing a life-saving heart operation.
In the aptly named “Kilts to Pasties Challenge 8-13 July 2023’ Gary Redman, CEO of Now Education and Now Careers, and Alex Westworth, Managing Director of Now
Education, will take on the challenge of over 1,000 miles in a Tuk Tuk to raise an incredible £50,000.
The quest won’t be simple because the Tuk Tuk is a tiny 200cc, 4 stroke single cylinder with a top speed of 45mph and an average speed of 30mph!
Commenting on the gruelling challenges he has already faced, Gary said: “In November 2021, I had an aortic value replacement, whereby my heart was fitted with a mechanical valve. It is apparently a condition I was born with, but I only found out about it about 16 years ago.
“Since my operation, I was keen to visit the cardiac ward at Birmingham Children’s Hospital to look at how I can help with fundraising support towards investigatory work and equipment as early intervention can be lifesaving.
As part of the fundraising process, schools from across the companies’ networks are being invited to participate in the “Kilts to Pasties” Challenge. They will be asked to create unique and striking displays to appear on the Tuk Tuk. Fantastic prizes will be offered for the best designs, including £500 worth of sports kit.
Gary continued: “Driving over 1,000 miles in a Tuk Tuk will be a huge challenge, especially for Alex as this will be his first time. Although I have already raised £30K for Birmingham Children’s Hospital by driving across India in a Tuk Tuk. This is certainly going to be out of Alex’s comfort zone.
“I am extremely grateful for his support and raising £50K for the hospital is our goal and we will make every effort to make it happen!”
Gary and Alex need your help to raise £50k and all donations are welcomed.
Please donate to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kilts-to-pasties-the-tuk-tuk-challenge