Molly’s Smile Fitness Challenge was held at Sutton High School on 20 January raising a total of £200. The Fitness Challenge was attended by more than 30 students and staff who came together to raise funds in memory of former student, Molly Burdett.
Molly attended Sutton High School between 2011 and 2013 studying psychology, sociology and drama. Molly’s Smile Fund is a chosen charity for Sutton High School January Charity Week.
Molly contracted hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and died just six weeks after the initial diagnosis. HLH is a rare condition which affects the immune system and causes it to attack the patient’s own organs. Molly was aged just 19 years old when she passed away.
Molly’s Smile Fund was set up in July 2015 to raise funds in memory of Molly Burdett. With the proceeds of the latest Fitness Challenge, the fund has now raised more than £30,000 and continues to grow.
“This is the second Molly’s Smile Fitness Challenge, building on the success of our inaugural event in Wimbledon. The challenges embody Molly’s life, positivity and smiles bringing together communities in a fun, fitness workout,” said Jane Burdett, chair, Molly’s Smile Fund. “Molly cherished her time and the friends she made at Sutton High. She also made a great contribution to the school, so it is a heartening tribute that Molly’s Smile Fund has been chosen as the school’s charity,” added Ms Burdett.
“We were delighted that this activity in memory of Molly took place during our annual Charity Week when girls organise fundraising events to benefit three charities, one of which is always a local organisation.
“In this case, it was particularly meaningful for them as many of our staff and girls knew Molly and it is good to know we are contributing towards helping others affected by HLH,” said Ms E Clark, head of the Upper School, Sutton High.