Hundreds of islanders turned up at Le Braye this morning to take part in a 10km run raising funds to support a 23-year-old who underwent life-changing amputations following an aggressive infection earlier this year.
‘Run for Lily’, which was followed by a cake sale, was held to help Lily McGarry get “the very best care possible”.
The Cardiff University medical student was rushed to hospital in January, suffering from meningococcal septicaemia – an aggressive infection.
Despite suffering two cardiac arrests, Lily fought for her life, but the infection caused severe blood flow issues and she is now a quadruple amputee as a result.
One of Lily’s friends, Daisy McAllister, organised today’s event to help bolster donations to an online fundraising page set up to assist with the purchase of advanced prosthetics and ongoing care that the former JCG pupil will need to regain her independence.
Daisy previously told Express that she did not want cost “to be a factor or concern for Lily and her family in getting her the very best care possible”.
“Lily absolutely deserves access and opportunity not only to the sports she loves but to experience a life on her terms of her choosing,” she said.
The fundraiser has seen over £340,000 donated so far.
Lily’s father, Stuart, thanked everyone who turned up this morning and said that his daughter felt “so loved”.
JCG principal Carl Howarth, who was among the hundreds of islanders who attended the fundraiser, said: “Friends are here, teachers are here, former students are here – it’s the most marvellous turnout for her.
“We can’t begin to imagine what Lily has gone through and we are just sending all of our love to her.
“One day she will be running with everyone else along this beach.”
DONATE…
You can donate to Lily’s fundraising page here.
Lily’s family have asked the public to avoid contacting her directly while she remains in a vulnerable position.