RUGBY fans have helped the Edenstone Foundation to support a young adult with Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
The Edenstone Foundation, part of the Edenstone Group, teamed up with rugby legends Sam Warburton and Andrew Coombs to hold a pre-world cup gala dinner to raise money for a specially adapted wheelchair for Jake Ogborne.
Jake, 18, lives in Bristol with his family. He was diagnosed with the degenerative neuro-muscular disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy type three, aged just four.
Jake was nominated to be the beneficiary of the fundraiser as his mum Kate went to school with an Edenstone Group employee.
Kate said: “We were overwhelmed when we heard that the Edenstone Foundation were holding an event in Jake’s honour. It was great to see so many people supporting the fundraiser, particularly Sam Warburton who Jake enjoyed meeting.
“Jake’s condition affects all of his muscles and he now uses a wheelchair fulltime but is finding it harder to propel himself in a manual wheelchair. Thanks to the Edenstone Foundation we’re looking forward to having a wheelchair adapted for him so that he can maintain his independence.”
The fundraising event, held at Bryn Meadows Resort, Maesycwmmer, raised £3,700.
Lloyd Exton, commercial manager at Ashgrove Groundworks, part of the Edenstone Group, explained: “The aim of the Edenstone Foundation is to give back to the community and support projects and people in need of help. When we heard Jake’s story, we were happy to be able to help.
“Thanks to the support of Sam Warburton, Andrew Coombs, Edenstone Group staff, contractors, suppliers and others who attended the event. As a result of their support we were able to achieve our goal and we can’t wait to present Jake with the cheque so he can purchase the equipment he needs.”
The Edenstone Foundation receives a proportion of the proceeds of every home the Edenstone Group sells, with staff also fundraising to support good causes.
The foundation has partnered with The Wallich and Compassion UK. It’s also making over outside space at Birchgrove Comprehensive School over the summer.
