JUST three short years ago – following news that rocked his family - dad Gavin Alemanno was unable to walk and talk, having undergone treatment for a brain tumour.
Perkins worker Gavin (34) spent over a month in hospital recovering from surgery, facing a scary and uncertain future.
However, the Ramsey father of two is now in training for the Perkins Great Eastern Run (October 13) – and is aiming to complete the 13-mile course to raise money for the Brain Tumour Charity.
And among his many supporters is Peterborough-based developer Linden Homes, who heard about Gavin’s amazing challenge from sales executive Iris Bailey. The company has agreed to sponsor Gavin, and match his initial fundraising target of £200.
Gavin said: “Three years ago I couldn’t even walk, and now I’m taking on this huge personal challenge of a half marathon, which I would really like to complete within two hours.
“Myself and my family have really been through some hard times since my diagnosis and surgery, but I am thankful I am still alive and really want to try and raise money for a charity that has a personal meaning.”
Within just a few days of being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2010, Gavin underwent a 21-hour operation at Addenbrookes in Cambridge, spending five weeks in hospital. He then had to live back with his parents for round-the-clock-care.
Iris – who is based at Linden Homes’ Yes! development in St Ives – is Gavin’s former mother-in-law. She said: “Gavin has made a remarkable recovery in a relatively short time and we are all very proud of him. He is a very determined person and I am thrilled that Linden Homes is backing his amazing efforts.”
Gavin also has another reason for taking part in the Great Eastern Run. He said: “Last year my Aunty Crissy was diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour and sadly lost her battle in November 2012 - so doing the run in her memory too.”
To support Gavin, who will be running the course with workmate Ron Inquieti, visit his donation page http://www.justgiving.com/Gavin-Alemanno
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For further press information please contact Cetti Long at Media Matters on 01733 371363 or email cetti@mediamatters-pr.co.uk
