Ben Hanger, a 17 year old student from Lytchett
Matravers, is preparing to trek the Great Wall of China to raise money
for Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), where his younger sister is a
regular visitor.
Wimborne-based Teachers Building Society is
sponsoring Ben, who is studying geography along with 3 other A-levels.
Ben’s geography teacher and fellow students will be closely following
his trek. His sister Melissa Hanger is just 11 and is suffering from a
rare condition which causes chronic back pain and has lead to stays of 2
or 3 weeks at a time at GOSH while specialists work to improve her
muscle strength and reduce muscle spasm. Together with his acting
guardian for the trek, 23 year old Kim Collins from Cattistock, Ben
plans to raise at least £6,000 for the hospital.
Ben says, “Prior to diagnosis, Melissa spent 6 months
undergoing a series of tests locally, but doctors were puzzled and
unable to offer any hope or explanation. Since being transferred to
GOSH, Melissa’s condition has been identified and with the help of
specialists there, she is managing the pain. I really want to give
something back to GOSH to show how thankful I am for all the support
Melissa and the whole family have received.”
Alan Gravett, Head of Sales & Marketing at
Teachers Building Society says, “As a mutual, it’s important for us to
support our local community when we can.
“Ben is working hard to raise money for GOSH to show
his appreciation for the dedication and care his sister received at the
hospital, so we’re pleased to be able to help him reach his target.”
The 85km trek will take place in October and in the
meantime, Ben and Kim will be working hard to raise the funds they need
to take part. If you’re able to make a donation, visit
http://www.justgiving.com/Kim-Collins87