picBaby Sam’s legacy lives on Baby Sam’s legacy lives on through every step his parents take at the Two Oceans Marathon. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
Among the thousands of runners who will line up for the different races that make up the world-popular Two Oceans Marathon this weekend will be a group of 60 running for a life-changing purpose.
These are not runners who will be chasing a Personal Best or because they love the sport but rather men and women intend on honouring the legacy left by a little boy who lived for a little more than a year.
Footprints 4 Sam is a charity organization focused on supporting children, and their families, facing the daily challenges of living with life-limiting illness. Started by Fred and Melissa Platt after their son Sam died at just 15-and-a-half months, Footprints 4 Sam aims to ensure that Sam’s bravery and spirit inspire change in paediatric healthcare across South Africa.
Through six key initiatives, and the generous support of corporate sponsors and ongoing donations, Footprints 4 Sam is committed to leaving lasting footprints of change in neonatal and paediatric wards nationwide.
Both parents will be participating, Fred set to run his 11th marathon in memory of his son while Melissa who will be running her 4th half marathon for her beloved Sam.
Among the athletes supporting their good course will be Elizabeth Dunsmuir who knows firsthand the incredible power of running for a cause. Back in 2023, she lost her 13-year-old son, Joshua, to cancer and as a result she embraced running as a way to celebrate his memory and give back to others in need.
Elizabeth shares a powerful mantra that has guided her through her grief, “If you can get up and walk, WALK! If you can get up and run, RUN! If you can get up and dance, DANCE! If you can get up, GET UP! And make the most of your life.”
Last year she conquered the current, completing the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon in 2:43:05 and raised a good R35 326 for Footprints 4 Sam. Elizabeth and the other 59 runners lacing up for Footprints 4 Sam on Saturday and Sunday are looking to raise more fronts and need help doing so.
You don’t have to be a runner or be at the starting line to make a meaningful impact to this charity! You can support Footprints 4 Sam by making a direct donation through Melissa’s GivenGain page.
Every contribution counts, and your support can bring hope and transform the lives of those who need it most. Together, let’s create a future filled with compassion, kindness and dignity for our children battling illness, their families and the health professionals that care for them.
IOL Sport
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