On 15th August, Jen Lonergan, wife of new Middlesbrough FC goalkeeper Andrew Lonergan, is climbing Kilimanjaro as part of an eight strong team of friends.
The team are taking on the challenge in aid of mental health charity MIND and The GEM Appeal – in memory of Jen’s brother who sadly took his own life in 2013.
The team also boasts Laura Wheater – wife of former Middlesbrough star David Wheater, and Jade Sharp, wife of Sheffield United player Billy Sharp.
Their aim is to raise £250,000 for the charities.
Why the GEM Appeal?
11 years ago Jen and Andrew welcomed their first daughter Millie into the world. Soon after she was born, after having a routine heel prick test they found out that she had a rare metabolic condition called Phenylketonuria (PKU). Phenylketonuria, is a genetic disorder of the metabolism which without treatment can lead to a variety of life-shortening mental and development problems including seizures.
Millie’s life is different to that of other 11 year old children in that she has to follow a really strict low protein diet and weekly blood tests are undertaken to monitor her protein levels to ultimately prevent brain damage.
Since Millie’s diagnosis Jen has received unwavering support from Karen Johnson, founder of The Gem Appeal which was formed to support families of children with genetic disorders and is pivotal in the raising of money for the Willink Unit at the Royal Manchester Children’s hospital where Millie is treated. The Willink Unit is completely self funded and relies on parents and charitable donations for funding.
Karen tragically lost two children to Hunters Syndrome at a time when there was very little research and very limited treatments. Whilst Karen’s two sons were dying her daughter was tragically diagnosed with Leukaemia. Katie was given a bone marrow transplant from her dying brother and he saved her life. Sadly, despite the huge efforts from the Gem Appeal, children and young people still die on a daily basis from genetic and metabolic conditions and so the fundraising must continue.
Jen wants to give something back and hopes that the money raised by the challenge will help raise funds to allow the charity to purchase a new TECAN machine worth £175,000 which will help to save many little lives.
Why Mind?
In August 2013, Jen tragically lost her brother to suicide.
Anthony had suffered with depression for many years and on the 19th August the struggle became too much and he took his own life. Sadly this isn’t uncommon and the statistics are frightening. This has been really difficult for us as a family to come to terms with since Anthony hid his illness so well. He was a highly successful teacher, loved by many and his sense of humour never failed to lift the spirits of others.
One of the aims of our challenge is to help raise funds for Mind, so they can continue their mission to support anyone who needs their services to help better mental health.
To donate, please click here.
For more information about the trek, click here.
.jpg)
