Will Perkins running for Deafness Research UK

22 December 2011

Having always wanted to run a marathon, Will Perkins from Hungerford, Berkshire, now feels this is the perfect time. Completely deaf in one ear for most of his life, Will is running to raise money for a charity close to his heart by participating in the Brighton marathon on 15 April 2012 - for national charity Deafness Research UK.  

Explaining why Will chose to run for Deafness Research UK, he said: “I had a meningitis type illness when I was about two years old, which is believed to have caused my hearing loss. A couple of years later we discovered that I was completely deaf in one ear and by this time nothing could be done to help. I know that at the moment there is no way of restoring my hearing, but the work Deafness Research UK do and the research the charity funds will hopefully one day bring technology on far enough to cure people like myself.”

Recently having to give up playing football, Will decided that now was a good time to concentrate on training for a marathon, a personal challenge he’s always wanted to fulfil.

“Running for a charity which is so close to me just makes sense. Deafness Research UK is all about finding cures for and supporting people like myself so running the marathon and raising money for them at the same time offers me the chance to give something back and help them continue their vital research.”

Hoping to double the target set by Deafness Research UK, Will is looking to raise a massive £1000 for the charity by the race date – 15 April 2012 when he is also hoping to complete the 26.2 mile route in under four hours.

Anyone wishing to support Will with his marathon run and fundraising efforts can donate safely online by visiting his Just Giving page, Williams Just Giving Page

Anyone inspired by Will’s story and efforts can join him running the Brighton marathon for Deafness Research UK who still have a limited number of places available.

Supported by the fundraising team at the charity, once registered you will receive a running vest, a fundraising pack, training advice and telephone and email support.

Danny Whiteside, Individual Giving Fundraiser at Deafness Research UK, said: “It’s great to hear about Will’s fundraising efforts and we are so grateful for the much needed individual fundraising people do on behalf of the charity. Our funding and ongoing research is entirely dependent on the efforts of people like Will supporting us, and the generosity of people sponsoring them.”

“Anyone wishing to join Will at the Brighton marathon, or wishing to do anything else to help our charity are welcome to give me a call for a fundraising pack, running vest or just some general advice, support and encouragement!”

For further information on running for Deafness Research UK in the future, visit Deafness Research UK or contact Danny Whiteside on 020 7164 2292. You can e-mail Danny Whiteside