‘Changing Faces’ Fundraiser
2292. Charlie Graver
Charlie Graver, aged 12, from Chester-le-Street, has had a number of reconstructive operations after a car crash left him with severe facial injuries at the age of four.
Having been supported by ‘Changing Faces’ after his injuries, Charlie has undertaken a number of fundraising challenges to raise funds for the charity.
Charlie started fundraising at the age of 8 and has since completed the mini Great North Run, ran up to 1.8 miles every day for 2 months, covering a distance of two marathons, and completed a personalised challenge where he ran 1.5 miles every two hours between 8am and 8pm over the course of a weekend. Most recently, Charlie, who is a keen football fan, ran six miles from his local club, ‘Chester-le-Street Town FC’, to the Angel of the North before cycling home again. Through these challenges, Charlie has now raised over £20,000 for ‘Changing Faces’.
In a personal letter to Charlie, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“I know that during your recovery you were supported by Changing Faces, and I was inspired to hear how you have been undertaking fundraising challenges to help the charity continue their important work.
“It is a remarkable person who, when faced with hardship, finds the strength to help others – but this is exactly what you have done.”
Charlie said:
“Wow! What an honour it is to have been given this award. This will have a huge impact on both me and the people I raise money for. Hopefully this award will make people more aware about the charity I feel passionate about.”
Find out more about ‘Changing Faces’