From Monarch pilot to marathon man
Monarch captain Simon Gauge is Virgin Money Giving’s second highest fundraiser in the 2016 London Marathon, so far raising over £26,000 for multiple sclerosis charity MS-UK.
To help Simon reach his fundraising target, the Monarch Foundation has donated £1000 from its matched funding scheme, which pledges support to employees for specific fundraising activities.
This has taken Simon through the £26,000 barrier and means he’ll be running for £1000 per mile.
Simon, 45, has been flying for Monarch for nine years and captains flights from Manchester and Leeds Bradford airports.
He was inspired to take on the Virgin Money London Marathon by the courage and bravery his brother Phil showed after being diagnosed with MS 12 years ago.
"Multiple Sclerosis is a disease very close to my heart. 12 years ago my younger brother, Phil, was diagnosed with MS, and unfortunately, at the age of 42, he has one of the most aggressive forms of the disease. But despite not having the use of any of his limbs and being barely able to speak, he has never lost his sense of humour," said Simon.
"Phil always said to me that the proudest thing he has ever done is have the courage to fight MS. I have never heard him moan about the disease, he remains positive and has never given up hope of a cure – he is my inspiration and in this context running the London Marathon will be a doddle!’
Pauline Prow, chief people officer at Monarch and chair of the Monarch Foundation, said: ‘We are extremely proud of Simon for taking up the challenge of the London Marathon and for raising such an incredible amount for MS UK.
"It’s a pleasure to recognise Simon’s efforts through Monarch’s matched funding scheme and to know that the money raised by Simon will help MS UK continue to make an invaluable difference to the lives of those suffering with MS."
To sponsor Simon and support his efforts for MS-UK, you can visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/simon-gauge-SAVMLMBONDS33320 16-3207
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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