Bristol to London Canoe Challenge in Memory of Baby Max to Support Local Children’s Hospice
This May, Andrew Mcmahon from Brislington in Bristol will undertake an extraordinary 13-day canoe journey from Bristol to London in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW). So far, Andrew has raised over £2,500 for the local children’s hospice.
Paddling a beautiful wooden Canadian two-seater canoe, Andrew will travel the waterways of southern England from 15 - 28 May, camping along the route with a rotating crew of friends joining him for different legs of the adventure. The challenge is as personal as it is physical – a heartfelt tribute to Max, the son of Andrew’s close friends Jimmy and Kelly.
Max was born with an ultra-rare genetic condition called myotubular myopathy, a rare genetic diseases which affects the muscles needed for breathing, moving, and swallowing. Max died just a few weeks after birth and was cared for at CHSW’s Charlton Farm hospice in Wraxall; where he spent time in the sunshine, cradled in the arms of his parents.
“Charlton Farm gave Jimmy and Kelly not just care for Max, but time, space and compassion during the hardest days of their lives,” said Andrew.
“As a nurse myself, I know how powerful and precious end-of-life care can be. If the money we raise can help even one other family receive the kind of support Jimmy, Kelly and Max experienced, then this journey will be more than worth it.”
Throughout the journey, Andrew and his paddling partners will camp in a variety of unique locations – from pub gardens to boatyards, canoe clubs to sailing centres – all while raising funds for the local children’s hospice.
Joining Andrew for the first weekend of the trip will be Max’s dad, Jimmy, making this poignant journey even more meaningful.
CHSW supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the region. Its local hospice, Charlton Farm in Wraxall, offers respite stays, specialist play, sibling support and compassionate end-of-life care. With less than 11% of its £14 million annual operating costs funded by the government, CHSW relies heavily on public donations.
Amanda Leonard, Area Fundraiser for CHSW added: “We are incredibly grateful to Andrew for taking on this incredible challenge. His commitment to raising awareness and funds for our hospice is truly inspiring, and every paddle stroke will help bring comfort and care to families who need it most.”
To support Andrew’s fundraising journey, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/andrew-mcmahon-5
If you have been inspired by Andrew’s story, you can take a look at the range of fundraising ideas by getting in touch with our team at Charlton Farm on 01275 866600, who will be happy to guide you on your own fundraising journey.