Jerry is aiming to raise £5,000 for the Toy Trust and his eight month training regime is now well underway.
On Saturday 18th August 2018, toy safety expert and BTHA technical committee chairman Jerry Burnie will be taking on the Superhero Tri for the Toy Trust under the charity’s initiative – toy industry heroes.
Jerry was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2004. The condition is incurable and progressive with increasing disability over time. It currently it affects the control, movement or operation of various muscle groups, in particular his legs, but also core muscles, eyes and his left hand. In addition it can create fatigue, dizziness and balance problems and affects many routine bodily operations. Extremes of temperature can cause numerous new difficulties. The symptoms vary day by day and hour by hour.
Jerry commented: “Planning for an event eight months away adds considerable difficulties and an element of blind optimism. Training needs to be raised very slowly to avoid burn out which can last for several weeks, although at present this is rare. I am excited and daunted in equal measure about taking on the Superhero Tri, but am thrilled to be able to become the first Toy Trust Industry Hero and to raise money for the industry charity. This is something I have wanted to do for some time and as a way of giving something back to the industry.”
As part of the event based at Dorney Lake, Windsor, Jerry will be taking on a 400m open water swim, 10km bike ride (hand bike) and 2.5km wheelchair course.
The Toy Trust will be supporting a number of inspirational children’s charities in 2018, both in the UK and abroad, and all of whom work to better the lives of disadvantaged and disabled children.
Foye Pascoe, chair of the Toy Trust, commented: “We are all incredibly inspired by Jerry and his efforts in taking on the Superhero Tri for the Toy Trust. He is a very worthy Industry Hero and we hope the industry will get behind him by sponsoring him, and help us raise as much money as possible for the Toy Trust, and to continue to give the gift of play.”
Donations can be made via Jerry’s fundraising page here.
