A Blackburn man has teamed up with a town centre fitness centre to raise money for Brain Tumour Research in memory of his mum who died last year.
Karl Eltman, of Cherry Tree, Blackburn, will be embarking on a four-hour spinathon at DW Fitness on Saturday 25 February at Lower Audley, Blackburn. The Blackburn BID area business has loaned their spin studio to Karl free of charge for the event and are supporting him with equipment and promotion of the event.
42-year old Karl said: “Sadly, last year I lost my mum to a brain tumour. Having seen the pain, suffering and upset experienced by my mum and those around her, it became apparent how common brain tumours are, and how little support those trying to fight this illness receive.
“I think the lack of funding is simply unacceptable, so I decided to do something about it.”
Brain tumours are the deadliest form of cancer for children and adults under 40. However, just 1% of the UK’s cancer research funding is currently allocated to the disease.
So far, Karl has raised £1,000 of his £2,740 target. All money raised will be donated to Brain Tumour Research, the UK’s only charity devoted to funding long-term, sustainable research into the illness.
The four-hour spinathon will be split into hour-long sessions with themed music, spanning genres such as the 80s, Northern Soul, rock and dance.
Karl said: “Four hours’ spinning equates to approximately an 80-mile bike ride, so we’re hoping as many people as possibly give whatever they can. In return, we’ll pedal like crazy and put in some proper graft!
“Please help me fund the fight – together we can find a cure. And I apologise in advance to anyone who is subjected to the sight of me in spandex!”
So far, Karl has managed to over 20 spinners to join the team, including friends, family, colleagues from INET3, where he works as Head of Complex Risk Underwriting, and Business First, Blackburn, centre manager Scarlette.
Team members range in age from 16 to 50. Anyone interested in a fast-paced workout for a good cause is welcome to join the fun, for an hour or as long as they like. Fancy dress is optional – though spinners are encouraged to don their lycra, wigs and sweatbands.
To sponsor Karl, go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Karl-Eltman
To get involved, email karl.eltman@inet3.co.uk
Pictured at DW Fitness are DW Staff member Danni Razaq with Karl Eltman
