Alex runs race for his auntie

Alex Gibson, 12, took part in the Junior Great South Run, to help the charity which supports his auntie Lucy.

Alex’s aunt is supported at Hatherleigh Gardens, one of the trust’s residential homes in Bognor Regis.

Lucy’s learning disabilities are severe and she has 
24-hour care, and this spurred on Alex, who lives in Southsea, to fundraise.

Alex endured the wind and rain to complete the 2.5km course in ten minutes.

His reasons for running the race were put in a heart-warming message on his sponsorship page.

Alex wrote: “Even if you can’t understand what someone in your family is saying, you still love them.

“I am talking about my auntie Lucy who has severe learning disabilities. When I do see my auntie, it is with my mum, gran and grandad; these three people are strong and I admire them greatly.

“I admire them because they persevere with Lucy, take her on day trips – her favourite day is going to see some trains followed by a nice bowl of chips – but what really touches me is when they 
talk to her and my auntie gives an answer; not by speaking, but by that look on her face that everyone loves.”

Alex’s family have also spoken of their pride for his fantastic achievement and his determination to run 
the race.

Alex has raised £405 in sponsorship which will go towards the trust’s £4m appeal.

Fundraising manager Abigail Rowe said: “On behalf of Aldingbourne Trust, I would like to thank Alex 
for his amazing achievements and raising money for the charity.

“He sounds like a wonderful, dedicated nephew who feels strongly about his aunt’s wellbeing.”

The aim of the appeal is to raise money to develop the facilities at the charity’s Aldingbourne Country Centre, and ensure the trust can become more self sufficient and support adults with learning disabilities in the years to come.