An engineer from Persimmon Midlands has been so inspired by the company’s nominated charity of the year that he will tackle his first triathlon this month.
Carl Webb will take on the challenge, at Emberton Country Park in Buckingham, on Sunday 29th June, in aid of Milton Keynes based charity Medical Detection Dogs.
Carl said: “I didn’t know much about the charity before it was selected as the focus of our company’s fundraising for the year, but I have been amazed by what they do.
“I went to the charity’s open afternoon and was fascinated to find out how they train dogs to detect diseases like cancer, and how people living with a serious medical condition can be helped by having one of these assistance dogs.
“The triathlon includes a 1.9k swim, 90k bike ride and a half marathon. I’m hoping to complete the course in less than six hours, but actually it will be an achievement just to finish!
“I have been training for several weeks now and hope to raise lots of money for the charity.”
Anyone wishing to sponsor Carl can make a donation via the charity’s website – www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk
The work of Medical Detection Dogs, based in Great Horwood, near Milton Keynes, covers two main areas – cancer detection dogs that are able to detect cancer cells in laboratory samples, and medical alert assistance dogs, trained to support individuals and identify subtle odour changes that can be the early warning signs of medical events.
Conditions which can be detected include diabetic hypoglycaemia, severe allergic reactions and narcolepsy.
The organisation receives no government support of grants, and relies wholly on trust funding and public donations. The cost of training and caring for each puppy is around £11,000.
Persimmon Homes Midlands is based at Northampton and operates new homes developments across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. For more information visit www.persimmonhomes.com