Y12 student Caitlin Ronan who is currently studying A-levels in Business, Maths and Accounting at JM Sixth Form, suffers from a progressive neurological disease called CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy). Impressively she has been continuing to raise money for an Eyegaze system for others after experiencing the new found independence that she has gained from using her own system.
Caitlin has been busy with AS exams but has recently sent us an update and is delighted to report that her current total stands at £32,000. She is looking forward to raising as much as she can so that she can help even more deserving young people. Caitlin has enough money already to buy another two further Eyegaze systems and can’t wait to find potential recipients.
Caitlin, along with other John Masefield Sixth Form students has been appointed as a Charity Co-ordinator to help raise the Sixth Form profile and organise regular fundraising activities for national and chosen charities. We feel fortunate to have her expertise on board and are looking forward to working with her.
Caitlin’s fundraising update – July 2016
Recently a family friend and old neighbour from Carshalton, John Barnett, completed his amazing cycle ride from St Andrews to Carshalton, Surrey which was a journey of 600 miles and he sent us lots of updates and photos along the way. He raised an amazing £1,215.
Emily Beavan, one of my day time carers, was very generous as when she was organising her 20th Wedding Anniversary party (Star Wars Themed) she asked all her guests to donate to my campaign rather than giving her and her husband Rob presents. Her family and friends were very generous and donated £708! Through Emily and her connection with the UK Garrison (a not for profit Star Wars costuming group), who attended her party in full Star Wars costume, they also donated £1,500 as they were so touched by my story and what I was trying to achieve for other children.
We did have a lovely Skype chat with Finlay, the first young person who is going to receive an Eyegaze system, a few weeks ago and he was fascinated with how I used the Eyegaze system and seemed really excited to be getting his system soon. I am delighted to say that we paid for the Eyegaze System for Finlay a while ago and he received it at the end of May! Below is an extract of an update from his mum describing the day he received the Eyegaze system. ‘It’s been a manic day but we had a very special delivery today in between the craziness…I hope you all remember the amazing story of a fabulous young lady who raised money to support others in the use of the Eyegaze computer. Well Finlay’s computer has arrived with absolutely everything he could ever need and wish for! We can’t thank you enough for your support, it will make such a difference.
Caitlin Ronan
July 2016