Through The Fight Foundation
1785. Shane Yerrell
Shane Yerrell, from Essex, has raised over £160,000 over the past ten years in support of people who have been victims of crime or abuse, or affected by ill-health or disability.
Shane started fundraising after being the victim of a knife attack in 2007, and realising that he could turn his experience into a positive by supporting others who were going through their own traumatic or difficult situation. Following the success of a sponsored climb in aid of ‘The Rob Knox Foundation’, set up in memory of the actor killed in a knife attack to support young people gain opportunities in the arts, Shane was inspired to continue his fundraising efforts, leading to the creation of his own foundation, ‘Through The Fight’ in 2016, which is dedicated to supporting anyone facing hardship. His most recent fundraiser is in support of a terminally ill 48-year-old man, raising over £3,000 to help him fulfil his bucket list wish of attending a Tottenham Hotspur match in a V.I.P box with all his family.
In a personal letter to Shane, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I was inspired to learn of your story and your decade of work to help families in need through acts of kindness and generosity.
“As you know from the vicious attack you suffered in 2007, violence destroys lives. So it is all the more admirable that you have since dedicated yourself to improving the lives of others, providing a vital safe space for people you have been victims of crime or abuse.”
Shane said:
“This is so overwhelming. I’ve had an incredible journey over the last ten years and met some amazing people.
“I set up ‘Through The Fight Foundation’ to ensure that victims of violent crime and people affected by illnesses could have somewhere to turn. Someone who would reach out to them. I wanted to be the person who reached out.
“To receive recognition from our Prime Minister is incredible. The fact that he has taken time out of his busy schedule to acknowledge my fundraising is amazing.
“I would like to dedicate this award to my family, close friends and all the people who have have fought back from their struggles.
“Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today.”