North East firefighters to run 200 miles in support of young Sunderland supporter
Written by Josh Edwards on 30th March 2023
A group of 13 Firefighters from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service will complete Oliver’s run to assist in raising funds for the treatment of eight-year-old Sunderland supporter Oliver Maw, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma cancer in February 2021.
It will take place on Friday, March 31 with those involved starting the run in Newcastle at 7.30am before arriving in Leicester city centre on Saturday afternoon.
A spokesperson for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “Oliver is an inspiration to us all. He has had to overcome so much in his seven-years but if you meet him his smile is infectious and there is always a friendly wave to everyone.
“The firefighting blue light family always sticks together and it’s heart-warming to see everyone coming together to try and create a better life for Oliver. We are all proud to be running for such an amazing cause.”
So far, Oliver has raised over £160,000 since the diagnosis, but is only just over halfway to the funds required in order for him to access the potential life saving treatment that he requires.
Neuroblastoma is an aggressive form of childhood cancer. Sunderland legend Bradley Lowery was diagnosed with the same cancer back in 2013 which led to numerous fundraisers taking place, including the founding of the Bradley Lowery Foundation in 2017.
The foundation was established to raise awareness and funds for research and treatment of childhood cancer and they are also supporting Oliver’s cause.
Lynn Murphy, Co-Founder of the foundation said: “It is amazing that they (Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service) are continuing to support Oliver’s campaign.
“They have been so supportive and are always thinking of new ways to help generate funds for Oliver. We are so thankful he has this support network.”
To support Oliver, there are two Just Giving pages, Run for Oliver (taking place on March 31 and April 1), and the overall fundraising page Olivers Fight Against Neuroblastoma. You can also donate £2 by texting the word “Oliver” to 70450.
