After rowing every hour, on the hour, for 24 hours straight alongside a team of 61 volunteers, and completing the TCS London Marathon in a supported wheelchair space, Alex Gibson and the dedicated team came back with an even tougher challenge: a 24-hour Boxathon that was held on the 3rd of October to raise vital funds and awareness in the fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Setting up Challenging MND in 2019, the charity has already raised £2.2 million and supported more than 650 families with grants for adaptive equipment, financial assistance, unforgettable trips and experiences, as well as setting up Family Care Coordinators to coordinate the all-encompassing care for someone living with MND. With the average life expectancy of an MND diagnosis being just 27 months, Alex has already defied the odds. For him, this is more than just another physical test.
The mental fight can be just as tough as the physical one. By taking on this relentless challenge, people with MND sent a clear message: no one should face this disease alone.
Emma Robertson at Challenging MND said: “We’re so proud to have achieved our 17th challenge, with an incredible atmosphere and involvement from over 100 people of all ages; the youngest being just 4 years old”.
So far, the Boxathon has raised over £3,000, with donations still pouring in after an incredible show of grit and determination.
Of the 720 rounds, Alex completed 50 2-minute rounds on the punching bag across the full 24 hours alongside a team of supporters who took over in between to keep the bag going.
One bag was consistently occupied by dedicated team members for the full 24 hours.
Emma continued: “This 24-Hour Boxathon was a remarkable testament to Alex’s resilience, determination, and commitment to raising awareness and funds for the MND community. It would not have been possible without CBK Essex, who showed remarkable support by hosting us.”
Chris and Rosie Barnes, founders of CBK Essex, say they are proud to stand with Alex, Challenging MND, and the MND community. For Chris, this partnership is personal: he knew Alex as kids and always thought of him as the “sporty one” who “pushed himself to the limit”.
He reflects, “What an inspirational, emotional but incredibly fun 24 hours. The gym community really pulled together in support of Alex and his amazing charity. The CBK Community look forward to another challenge alongside Alex and his team.”
The Boxathon was not only a personal victory but also a rallying cry for continued support for those affected by this disease.
To find out more about the Boxathon and how to donate, please visit
https://challengingmnd.enthuse.com/cf/24-hour-boxathon-for-challenging-mnd.
