Westfield based Millie Hawkins is inspiring the community by setting up a walk from Radstock Wheel to Bath Abbey, all to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease Association in honour of her much-loved dad who was diagnosed with the illness.
Millie, wanting to inspire change and people’s outlook on those more ‘disadvantaged’ than others, told The Journal: “I will be walking this route for my Dad, who sadly has this illness [Motor Neurone disease]. He means the absolute world to me and to watch him deteriorate with this cruel disease is absolutely heartbreaking. Through my life, my dad has always taught me to have fun and never take life too seriously.
“One thing for sure is that he’s definitely not lost his humour and cheeky smile which is what he’s known for.
“I’d love this walk to be fun, enjoyable and meaningful, which I know it will be.
“I will be setting off from Radstock Wheel at 9am on Sunday, 2nd October with a group of people who have kindly contacted me to say they are wanting to join.
“Even some of dad’s old schools friends, who he hasn’t spoken to in years, have contacted me on Facebook to say they will be there. The support so far has been incredible.
“Everything we are doing has value and if I can help just one other person, my goal would be achieved.
“Dad will join us at the start of the tunnels and join us on the rest of the walk in his wheelchair, if he can, or meet us at the Abbey.”
Millie is encouraging anyone and everyone to get involved on the day and join the walk, if they can.
Inclusion means a lot to Millie, which is evident through her work at ‘Sporting Family Change’, a charity supporting and empowering local families to help build their sense of belonging. Her boss and founder of the charity, Jimmy Deane (pictured above with Millie), said: “Our aim here is to give people time, build their confidence and motivations to make positive lifestyle changes. It is about building trust and showing people we are all equals. Our strapline is ‘the ability to be kind’ and create opportunities for all.
“Millie and her family are amazing. When you meet people like Millie’s dad, Millie and her mum, you feel absolutely privileged to have met them. We are so blessed to have met them all and have Millie as part of our team.
“As well as setting up the walk, Millie also bakes cakes; ‘Made by Millie’ to raise money for our charity. Millie selflessly gives all proceeds of her bakes to Sporting Family Change, with a portion of the money going to Motor Neurone Disease Association.
“All of Millie’s hard work really does show. I know we are incredibly lucky to have her and I would love to see as many people as possible turn up to show their support for her and her family.”
Anyone is welcome to join Millie; whether you know her family, you want to support the charity, or just get out and walk through beautiful countryside.
If you would like to support Millie, please visit her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Millie-Hawkins