WHEN tragedy and heartbreak stuck a family on the new homes development where she works, caring sales executive Lynda Price was moved and motivated to do her bit to help.
The novice runner recently completed the Lincoln 10km Road Race to boost funds for an organisation that raises awareness of a genetic disorder which claimed the lives of twin baby boys.
Their grandmother Lynn Earp was one of first residents to move to Linden Homes Midlands’ Bluebell development in Bingham, to be closer to her pregnant daughter Heidi.
Following a healthy birth and a normal few weeks and months in early 2013, the family later discovered that little Max and Leo were suffering from the rare genetic disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
Tragically, the disease claimed the life of both little boys at just six months old.
Lynda said: “I had built up quite a friendship with Lynn as she was among the first residents to move in, and shared with me her journey of the euphoria of the birth of the boys and the utter devastation the family felt, and are still feeling, at their deaths.
“The 10km was a huge personally challenge for me as I have never run in my life, but after signing up I asked Lynn and Heidi if I could help raise funds into supporting families affected by this awful disease. As a mum of grown-up children myself, the heartache must be beyond imaginable, and I am so grateful to everyone who has sponsored me.”
Linden Homes Midlands donated £450 to Lynda’s sponsorship fund, which has reached around £1,350.
And Emily Goodman from Spinal Muscular Atrophy Support UK visited the Bingham development to accept the cheque on the organisation’s behalf – alongside Lynn Earp.
Lynn said: “Lynda is a wonderful lady for committing to run her first 10K and want to use the occasion to raise awareness for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), in memory of my beautiful grandsons Max and Leo, who gave so much pleasure in their short lives.
“I hope that the money raised by kind and caring people, such as Lynda, enables genetic research to ensure, that in the near future, families never have to experience a loss and sorrow such as ours.”
For more details on Spinal Muscular Atrophy Support UK visit http://www.jtsma.org.uk/index.html
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