Fundraiser for Paralympian almost at £100k target

A fundraiser to support a gold medal Paralympian with terminal cancer is being held over the bank holiday weekend and has nearly hit its target of £100,000.

David Smith MBE has competed in a number of sports, but achieved gold in rowing in the 2012 Paralympic Games.

Former Bath rugby player and broadcaster Ed Jackson has helped start the Miles for Dave initiative to raise money and encourage people to get moving over the weekend.

The money - currently totalling more than £96,000 - is for David's treatment, care, specialist equipment and to support his family.

While people can take part however they like, such as walking, running, cycling or rowing, there has been an in-person event in London at Battersea Park, organisers said.

Jackson said: "Dave has given so much to so many people over the years, supporting and inspiring those around him, and now it's our turn to support him.

"As he undergoes palliative care, he's still fighting with incredible strength."

Fellow organiser Luke Tarrant said on the fundraising page online that the response had been "overwhelming" and thanked everyone.

He explained the funds would go to drugs that could stop the tumour on David's spine from growing, and then a place at a leading neuro-rehab centre.

"It's his best chance at recovering any function, independence and quality of life. It's also, as you'd expect, very expensive.

"David has spent his whole life showing up for other people, raising money for strangers, giving advice to anyone who asked. He has never once asked for help in return," added Tarrant.

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