Bittaford mother and daughter embark on inspirational challenge for The Brain Tumour Charity

A Bittaford landlady, Dawn Michelin is lacing up her running shoes for a unique and heartfelt mission.

In memory of her father, who lost his battle with a brain tumour a decade ago, Dawn is embarking on a 100-day challenge, running 10 miles daily to support The Brain Tumour Charity.

Dawn, who is the landlady of the Horse and Groom in Bittaford, Ivybridge, will be pushing through the challenge alongside her own personal health battles. Modestly claiming she's "not a runner," Dawn will be pushing her limits by committing to run 10 miles every day until April. This physical feat, already remarkable, is intensified by her ongoing battle with ankylosing spondylitis, an inflammatory disease causing joint stiffness, heart issues, and autoimmune complications. Undeterred by her chronic pain, Dawn is stepping up to make a difference.

Her daughter, Chantelle, will join the cause, committing to a daily 5km walk. The Michelin duo are driven by a personal connection to the devastating impact of brain tumours on their family.

Dawn, who previously walked 8 million steps for the same cause, now faces her most challenging fundraiser yet. Despite doubling her initial fundraising goal, she and Chantelle are determined to keep going until April, raising awareness and vital funds for brain tumour research.

Donations have already poured into Dawn's JustGiving page, surpassing her initial fundraising goal in record time.

Local residents, touched by Dawn's personal connection to brain tumour struggles, have been vocal in their encouragement. Comments on social media have demonstrated a shared sentiment of admiration for Dawn's resilience and a collective commitment to the cause.

Dawn, reflecting on her challenge, shared, "I came up with the challenge because I wanted to do something crazy in my Dad’s memory, while also helping people in similar situations – letting them know people care." 

Community Fundraiser at The Brain Tumour Charity, Anoushka Baker, expressed gratitude for Dawn and Chantelle's exceptional efforts, stating, "We are blown away by Dawn and Chantelle’s incredible efforts and wish them all the best for the rest of their challenge."

As Dawn and Chantelle press on with their challenge, the community rallies behind them, collectively contributing to the fight against brain tumours.

To show your support for Dawn and Chantelle's efforts:
- Dawn's fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dawns-shuffling
- Chantelle's fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/chantelle

As Dawn aptly puts it, "After all, it is a privilege to be able to move."