A Derbyshire couple who have raised tens of thousands of pounds in memory of their teenage daughter have taken on another challenge to continue her legacy.
Sally and David Bird, from Tibshelf, were among thousands of participants who braved mud, water and obstacles at the Summer Wolf Run in Leicestershire on 13–14 June.
The pair completed the 10km course as part of their latest fundraising efforts in honour of their daughter Caitlin, who died aged 13 after contracting Covid-19 in October 2020.
Since her death, the couple have channelled their grief into fundraising and supporting others, establishing what they describe as a lasting tribute to Caitlin’s kind and caring nature.
Last year, in the lead-up to what would have been her 18th birthday, the family organised 18 fundraising events – raising £29,630 for charities she would have loved, while also helping advocate for bereaved families and keeping her memory alive. They have now turned their focus to a new challenge, using the Wolf Run to raise funds for Farms for City Children.
The charity enables young people to spend time living and working on real farms in Devon, Gloucestershire and Pembrokeshire, helping them build confidence, wellbeing and life skills through immersive outdoor experiences.
The choice of Wolf Run was also inspired by Caitlin’s love for wolves, her favourite animal.
Wolf Run, which attracts tens of thousands of runners each year across three events, combines trail running, mud runs and obstacle challenges, with participants climbing, crawling and wading through natural and man-made obstacles.
More than 7,000 people took part across the Summer Wolf weekend, with the event emphasising teamwork and camaraderie rather than competition.
For Sally and David, however, the finish line represents something far more personal.
Each challenge they take on is part of an ongoing mission to ensure their daughter’s life continues to have a positive impact on others.
Donations can be made for their Wolf Run efforts at www.justgiving.com/page/sally-bird-7
Through mud, determination and community spirit, the couple’s latest challenge ensures Caitlin’s memory continues to make a difference.
Entries for Wolf Run’s final event of the year, Autumn Wolf, are open at www.thewolfrun.com
With thanks to New Reach/Wolf Run
