Support Worker Kirsty Parker, 30, from Percy Main, took a giant step, Zip Sliding from the Tyne Bridge on Sunday, 2 April, in aid of people with learning disabilities, having lost a staggering 7 stones and 5 lbs in just 9 months.
Kirsty, who works here at LD:NorthEast, says she was inspired to lose weight by the people who have raised money for LD:NorthEast by taking part in previous Zip Slides.
She said “Twice a year people launch themselves from the Tyne Bridge to raise money for LD:NorthEast. I’ve always wanted to do it but I knew that I needed to lose some weight. I thought, why not set a goal that would do something for me, as well as benefit others. I absolutely loved it!”
Pictures: Kirsty before and now
Kirsty, an experienced and popular support worker, has been with the charity for 14 years. “I have supported many young people over the years and I know how tight funding is at the moment. I know first-hand how important a small amount of support can be for people and the massive affect it can have on their lives” she added “Anything I help raise will help make a massive difference. I absolutely love what I do and having the chance to do that little bit more and take part in this event means so much to me.”
In June 2016, Kirsty started attending a Slimming World group at The Parks Leisure Centre in North Shields and says she has had fantastic support from them, as well as from friends and family. Having lost 7st 5lb, she now wants to lose 10st in total.
David Robinson, Chief Executive at LD:NorthEast speaks of Kirsty’s massive achievement. “We rely more and more on the generosity of people to support our work. As a local charity, we are very lucky to have a fantastic team of staff, volunteers and supporters. Kirsty is an amazing example of this both in her valuable work and in volunteering her time and energy. Last year, she vowed to lose the weight in order to take part and has gone way beyond that. She has not only made a big difference in her own life, but also makes a huge difference in the lives of the people she supports every day. Her help raising funds will help to secure support for people in the future. We are so proud of her.”
If you would like to make a donation to LD:NorthEast, you can find out more here or you can donate on Kirsty’s Virgin Money Giving page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KirstyParker87
If you would like to take part in the future, or if you would like a Great North Run place, email info@ldne.org.uk or call 0191 2622261