Tackling Chronic Liver Disease
511. Emma McDonald
512. Phil McDonald
A couple from Wakefield who were inspired by their son to raise over £65,000 for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation.
When Emma and Phil McDonald’s son Freddie was diagnosed with Chronic Liver Disease at just 24 weeks old they realised they couldn’t do anything to make his illness go away, but they could help other families facing similar diagnoses. Three years later, Emma and Phil have supported Freddie through extensive treatment including a liver transplant and open heart surgery, and raised over £65,000 for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation.
The couple have taken part in a huge range of fundraising challenges, inspiring friends and family to join in and support them. From taking on the Three Peaks Challenge with 30 family and friends, to Emma and her sister running the BUPA Great North Run last year. One of their most successful events was a summer ball Emma and Phil organised last summer which saw 300 guests raise so much money they are considering making it an annual event. It’s not just money that Emma and Phil have been working so hard to raise.
The couple are also committed to raising awareness both of Chronic Liver Disease and the importance of organ donation, without which Freddie may not be alive.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“Phil and Emma have worked tirelessly to help very sick children like their son Freddie. The money and awareness they have raised for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation will make a huge difference in the lives of children fighting liver disease. They have inspired a fantastic number of people to support them and I am delighted to recognise their service by making them both UK Points of Light.”