Farnham Netball Club will be playing a 12-hour match to raise vital funds for charity, after two of its members experienced tragic losses within weeks.
Last October long-standing club member Tina Mumford, who lives in Aldershot, suffered the loss of her son Tom after the 18-year-old sadly took his life following a long-term battle with mental health issues.
Just weeks later Sam Brennan, who lives in Ash and was pregnant with identical twins, tragically lost her boys Jack and Harley after being diagnosed and undergoing unsuccessful treatment for TTTS (Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome). The rare but life-threatening condition affects 10 to15 per cent of identical twins that share a placenta.
The supportive club, which was established in 1976 and has three teams successfully playing in the local Wavell Invitation and Saturday Aldershot Garrison leagues, wanted to take on the grueling challenge on Sunday, 1 July to raise funds for Tina’s and Sam’s chosen charities.
Tina has selected to raise money for MIND, which is working to ensure nobody has to face a mental health problem alone. Demand for their services is rapidly growing as one-in-four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives.
Meanwhile, Sam has chosen to raise funds for TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Births Association) to support their Bereavement Group and further research into TTTS.
Farnham Netball Club is inviting local players to enter a team and support the challenge, which will take place at St Nicholas’ School, Fleet. Alongside the action on court, various fundraising activities will be available on the sidelines to keep the supporters entertained.
Rebecca Wilson, who has been instrumental in pulling the event together with other club members, said: “The entire club was devastated to learn of Tina and Sam’s losses which happened in quick succession. We all felt so helpless and taking on this challenge, which will be no mean feat playing non-stop netball for 12 hours, seemed the perfect way to show our support in a positive way. We have set ourselves the target to raise £2,500 to be shared equally by the two charities, but are hoping to smash that goal!”
The club is also keen to hear from any organisations, who would be willing to support its fundraising efforts by kindly donating prizes for their raffle and auction.
Date: 1 July 2018
Venue: St Nicholas’ School, Fleet
£50 entry fee per team
For more information visit www.farnhamnc.com
