Anna Lewis Brighter Future Fund
842. Jessica Lewis
Jessica Lewis, from London, is the founder of the ‘Anna Lewis Brighter Future Fund’ which has raised over £300,000.
Following the death of her daughter Anna, who was diagnosed with incurable mitochondrial disease, Jessica decided to dedicate the last five years to fundraising for the ‘Mitochondrial Research Group’ at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Jessica has shared Anna’s story, encouraging hundreds to fundraise in her memory, with activities ranging from marathons to annual summer balls. This culminated in Jessica leading 100 of her Civil Servant colleagues around the Royal Parks Half-Marathon, which raised £70,000.
In a personal letter to Jessica, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“By creating the ‘Anna Lewis Brighter Future Fund’, you have responded to an incredibly personal tragedy with inspirational strength. Through the many events and activities you organise, you have inspired hundreds of people to give support for advancing research into mitochondrial disease. You should feel very proud of the transformational effect the £300,000 is having on ‘Great Ormond Street Hospital’ and those diagnosed with the condition.”
Jessica said:
“I am surprised and honoured to receive this award! My younger daughter Anna died at ‘Great Ormond Street Hospital’ in 2012 and she was looked after with such love and care at the hospital. I wanted to use my experience to help other families in a similar position, facing the toughest of times in their lives. Volunteering at ‘GOSH’ has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and I would encourage everyone to become a volunteer if they can. You learn new skills, make new friends, but most importantly you have a chance to give back. I am so grateful to ‘GOSH’ for giving me this opportunity.”