Housing Assistant takes on birthday Birmingham Half Marathon to support local retirees

A Housing Assistant from Bournville Gardens Village (ExtraCare Charitable Trust) is raising money to bring comfort to retirees approaching end of life or living with advanced dementia.

Lynne Bradley-Smith has supported residents at Bournville Gardens for the past 10 years, building strong relationships with residents and their families through her compassion, professionalism and commitment.

Funds raised will go towards purchasing smart speakers for residents in need, enabling them to listen to favourite music, enjoy audiobooks and access comforting audio that can be especially beneficial for people living with advanced dementia or those approaching end of life.

What makes the achievement more remarkable is the fact that the race takes place on Lynne’s 68th birthday, marking an incredible testament to her generosity, strength, and spirit.

Annette Leslie, Village Manager at Bournville Gardens Village commented; “Lynne has been a true inspiration to everyone here at the village. For many months, she has been asking both myself and colleagues what more she could do to help raise funds for Bournville Gardens’ residents. Her passion and determination to make a difference has been evident every step of the way.

Lynne chose to focus her efforts on supporting our most vulnerable residents. It’s a cause that has deeply resonated with both staff and residents, bringing everyone together and creating a wonderful sense of community and purpose throughout the village.”

Lynne adds; “I hope that by raising funds for smart speakers for those with dementia or approaching end of life it will bring people some comfort or entertainment.”

Training has been going well for Lynne who recently completed her first ever Wolverhampton 10k run.  She adds; “I earned my first ever medal and completed the run in a time of one hour and three minutes! Bournville Gardens residents keep asking how the training is going which makes me feel that this is all worthwhile. I plan to put the route on show in the village and when my race number comes through, everyone can track my progress on the day via an app that can be downloaded.”

Lynne’s family have been her biggest supporters, however they do “think I am mad for completing the half marathon on my birthday”.

Residents, friends and members of the local community are invited to support Lynne’s fundraising page here: Lynne Bradley-Smith is fundraising for ExtraCare Charitable Trust. For those at the village a sponsorship form is also available at reception at Bournville Gardens Village.

Lynne’s fundraising effort is a true reflection of the compassion at the heart of Bournville Gardens, showing how kindness, determination and community spirit continues to help change lives.

 

 

Image Caption: Lynne at the recent Wolverhampton 10k run