A STUDENT is raising money for charity in memory of his grandfather who died after testing positive for Covid-19.
Jacob Nunney from Peacehaven will run 140km in February to honour John Nunney, who lost his battle with coronavirus on January 18, aged 86.
The 20-year-old is hoping to raise more than £1,400 for Blind Veterans UK, the charity that supported his grandfather after he lost his sight.
Jacob said he would look forward to hearing about his grandfather’s visits to the Blind Veterans Centre in Greenways, Brighton.
He said: “When he got back and told me what he’s been up to, I just couldn’t believe it.
“Everything from rifle shooting to arts and crafts, the charity is just incredible at getting blind veterans back on their feet and doing things they probably never imagined they would be able to do again.”
Jacob, who attends Solent University in Southampton, will run the 140km in 5km stints alongside some of his university housemates.
He said that after letting his fitness go during lockdown, it will be a challenge to reach his target.
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“It’s going to get very challenging. But when I finish, I know 100 per cent that it will be the best feeling that I’ve had in years,” Jacob said.
“I’ll be thinking of my grandad all the way through and it’ll be an honour to pass on the funds to the charity that helped him out so much.
“So far I’ve raised £1,200 towards my £1,400 goal. Any support that anyone can offer to help me hit my target would be hugely appreciated.”
Blind Veterans UK has adapted its service to support its 5,000 beneficiaries, 90% of whom are over 70 and at an increased risk from Covid-19.
Nicky Shaw, director of operations at Blind Veterans UK, said: “Living in isolation, blind veterans need our help right now with daily tasks, such as the shopping, and constant emotional support through this difficult time.
“So we are temporarily changing our service and mobilising our staff to provide practical, essential support to help the most vulnerable.”
“There is so much that we can and must do to support blind veterans to help them maintain physical and emotional wellbeing, and to feel safe, reassured and cared for during this crisis.”
To visit visit Jacob’s fundraising page, go to gofundme.com/f/for-john-nunneu
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