Sisters read 26 books in 26 days for cause close to their hearts

Three young sisters from a primary school in the heart of Oldham recently took part in the nationwide 2.6 Challenge, for a cause very close to their hearts.

Iqra, Zara and Maria Jawaid, from Oasis Academy Clarksfield, are each reading 26 books in 26 days and raising money on JustGiving for the Ataxia Telangiectasia Society (A-T).

The total amount raised by the three budding youngsters so far is £150, and that number continues to rise. They currently have a goal to raise £260.

The 2.6 Challenge was created in response to the many fundraising events in the UK that have been postponed or cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Whilst hopeful many of these events will go ahead at a later date, there will still be a significant impact on many charities.

Mum of Iqra, Zara and Maria, commented: "We still remember the devastating time when we got in touch with A.T. Society after getting Zara’s diagnosis.”

"They are a small charity but the work they are doing for kids with this condition is unbelievable they are a lifeline for families like us. They helped us understand her condition better and made sure everything she needs is in place for her. 

"The specialist led clinics they hold are in such a nice family environment that you feel at ease. They even came to visit the school and helped the staff understand her complex needs better which made not only A.T. Society but school feel as part of our big family.

"They are always a phone call away and go out of their way to help and deserve a lot of appreciation for the great work they are doing." 

The A-T Society is the only charity in the UK providing specialist, extensive, practical, emotional and therapeutic support which we do through a range of activities from regular outreach, workshops, respite, counselling, specialist medical interventions and tirelessly advocating to ensure the educational, housing, healthcare and benefits needs are met.

Nigel Fowler, Principal at Oasis Academy Clarksfield, said: "This is a wonderful charity and I’m delighted the girls are working hard to support it. At Oasis Academy Clarksfield we live by the Oasis 9 Habits and this is another example of how our fantastic children meet them. Well done girls and keep reading." 

Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) is a genetic disease which causes severe disability in children. Children born with the A-T gene appear healthy until they are around 2- 3. Soon their balance starts to fail, they become wobbly and need assistance to walk. By the age of 10 many are wheelchair users and by the time they are 12 years old they may need help to eat.

William Davis, Chief Executive Officer of the A-T Society, said: "We are a lifeline to 200 children and young adults with A-T and to 800 family members. Living with A-T takes a heavy toll on mental health and well-being as families cope with the degenerative and life-limiting nature of this cruel condition - we’re committed to doing what we can to improve this, and never more so than now.

"The impact of the coronavirus for people affected by this condition is simply terrifying. Calls to our helpline have increased by 300% in the last couple of months. We are here; to listen, to reassure, to provide expert advice and support in every way we can."

During their challenge, Zara said: "I love doing activities together with my sisters." Maria added ”I’m having loads of fun reading all the books.” Iqra finished by adding; “I love reading so this is the best challenge ever we have been really enjoying reading all the books specially these days when we are home all the time.”

You can donate to the A-T Society via Iqra, Zara and Maria’s JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sumeras-26-challenge.