A tragic loss of a young life last year could have spelt lifelong pain but not for the Bewsher family
GREENSIDE – The family found some good in their son’s tragic loss through organ donation.
Pirates Road Running recently held a virtual 5km run/walk in honour of Nathan Bewsher to raise funds for the Organ Donor Foundation of South Africa.
Thirteen-year-old Nathan tragically lost his life when he tripped and fell during a morning run in June 2020. He was taken to Milpark Hospital after being resuscitated but never regained consciousness. His parents, Warren and Cathy Bewsher, made the decision to donate his organs and as a result made a difference to the lives of four other people.
The Bewsher family approached Pirates Road Running to commemorate what would have been Nathan’s 14th birthday with a virtual run of a special heart-shaped route that was run by Pirate’s members last year in honour of Nathan. As a long-time Pirates member, Warren was often supported on runs by Nathan who would be seen riding alongside his dad on his bicycle or helping out at water tables.
Cathy said the response was overwhelming. “We are so grateful to everyone who contributed and have come out in support of the Organ Donor Foundation, and of course, to celebrate Nathan’s life,” she said
To avoid large crowds the more than 700 entrants walked and ran the route in their own time over the period of 6 to 14 March. “We even had people walk their own routes in KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Town and as far away as the United Kingdom.”
The week culminated in a small celebration at Pirates Club where the Organ Donor Foundation were able to share the importance of signing up and letting your family know that you are an organ donor. With one donor being able to save up to seven lives, it is crucial that potential donors know the importance of this worthy cause. Also at the celebration were YouTube sensation dad and daughter duo Adrian and Emma-Jean Galliard who performed a special song.
Thanks to generous sponsors, donations and friends of the Bewsher family the virtual event raised over R120 000 for the Organ Donor Foundation.
Details: If you would like to find out more about organ donation or becoming an organ donor please go to www.odf.org.za
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