With pics and video of Maddy here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/piko6i84keufdj9sq8e0k/h?dl=0&rlkey=q4ex9xmgixtl7dt383pi0voge
A Hampshire family are cycling 2,000 miles from Hampshire to Athens to raise money for the charity, Maddy's Mark - in memory of Maddy Lawrence who died in March following an injury playing rugby.
20-year-old Petersfield girl Maddy died from a hospital infection following an injury sustained playing rugby for the University of the West of England against the University of Bristol.
On Monday, 12thSeptember, Maddy's Aunt, Janine Gillard and her fiancée Phil Taylor are setting off from Liphook on a cycle trip to the Acropolis in Athens - from Petersfield to the Parthenon - to raise money for the charity set up in Maddy's memory, Maddy's Mark. It is focused on promoting positive mental health and wellbeing in young women, through the sport of rugby.
Maddy's parents, Karen and Simon, said: "We are so grateful for her life. Maddy was always looking forward, ready for new experience. Goodness, she loved life! Buzzing with creativity, she loved art and design but was also at home outdoors - especially up a tree or flying down the wing for her beloved University of the West of England rugby team.
"At UWE she found her band of sisters, who were and are committed to helping each other through all life's challenges. We have been so touched and heartened to hear their many stories about how Maddy helped them build their confidence, self-image, and self-belief. She absolutely did not care about who you appear to be; she cared about who you are. She believed passionately in the values of teamwork, mutual support, fellowship, and fair play. And that is the rugby community in a nutshell."
Janine and Phil will be waved off by staff and pupils at Churcher's Junior School in Liphook, where Janine teaches, at noon on Monday Sept 12th..
The aim is to reach Athens on October 20thafter 2,000 miles and ten countries. Janine commented: "We are a little apprehensive about what lies ahead. However, we are so grateful for all the magnificent support that we have received. Maddy took all that was in her and all that the world gave her and marched on with a smile.
"We are determined to follow this example and ensure her life continues to encourage others to be kind, bold and to bring love. Your gift will help us to do that and are very grateful for all who are able to donate".
If you would like to support Maddy's Mark, donations can be provided viahttps://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/janine-gillard-2
ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Maddy's dad, Simon Lawrence, at:lawrences1919@gmail.com
Janine will be posting a blog update on the journey on her website:www.petersfield-to-the-parthenon.com