Fantastic achievement by amputee Kat

Congratulations to Kathleen Hawkins who completed the 5km run/walk/wheel at Parallel London.

Kat had both her legs amputated below the knee after contracting meningococcal septicaemia during her first term at university.

After finishing the event she said, “I think I could only ever cross the finish line with this big a smile at Parallel London. Today was a big day for me. I did a 5km run/walk/wheel for Meningitis Research Foundation to mark 10 years since I had this horrible horrible disease. I cried pretty much all morning because it felt really overwhelming and also there were so many people there with disabilities and everyone was in it together, supporting each other, side by side. It was just an amazing, fun event which was the definition of inclusivity. Everyone having a great time. No race, no competition.”

Exceeding her fundraising goal, Kat raised over £1000 for Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF).  www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kathawkins

Rob Dawson, Head of Support at MRF, said, “We could not be more proud of Kat who has been a long term supporter and Ambassador for MRF. She’s an inspiration to others who have been similarly affected by meningitis and septicaemia. The money she has raised will help support MRF’s lifesaving research into the prevention, detection and early treatment of meningitis and septicaemia. It will also allow us to continue raising awareness and supporting individuals and families affected.