Running with Rita

This April, a group of twenty five runners are fundraising for RSBC in a challenge they’ve called ‘Run with Rita’. As part of the event, one of the organisers, Michael is also taking on London Marathon MyWay, a virtual marathon event where runners can complete the 26.2 miles from anywhere, at their own pace over a 24-hour period.

We spoke to Michael to find out more about ‘Run with Rita’ and why they wanted to fundraise for RSBC.

Could you tell us a bit about yourself and Rita, Michael?

My name’s Michael, and I live in Bedfordshire with my wife, Sarah and daughter Rita who is classed as severely sight impaired. Rita loves dancing, including ballet and modern, and enjoys doing her dance shows. She’s endured more medical procedures than most adults and she has had to push through biases, barriers, and moments that would break many of us. But she keeps going with humour, courage, and a spark that inspires everyone around her. Without charities like RSBC, she would not continue to thrive and accomplish what she has.

Could you tell us a bit about the event you're doing, 'Run with Rita'?

On Sunday the 26^th of April, we’re taking on a challenge we’ve called ‘Run with Rita’ to raise money for RSBC. Twenty five runners will be taking part and they’re all running different distances along the same route, with the longest being 26.2 miles and a huge total distance of almost 65 miles.

We have a mix of runners taking part in-person but also virtually. Someone’s joining virtually from Yorkshire. And Rita’s uncle and cousin from Liverpool. Most of the runners are running a planned 7.2 mile route in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, with Rita and three of her friends running the last two kilometres.

By all running together, in a combined effort to raise money for RSBC as well as raising crucial awareness of vision impairment, we are truly ‘Running with Rita’.

What made you want to fundraise for RSBC?

Our decision to fundraise for RSBC came from wanting to focus directly on a charity providing help and support to Rita and her peers. Since receiving support from RSBC Rita has gone from strength to strength. Rita and I both raise funds for charity individually and wanted to take on another challenge. We decided to combine our efforts to make the event more special and meaningful, that’s when ‘Run with Rita’ was born.

When Rita received her diagnosis it was terrifying and a very anxious time particularly as it was at the height of COVID-19 and restrictions applied to accessing care. We were suddenly thrown into a completely different ‘world’ with very little guidance. RSBC have been crucial in helping us find our way. Without their support, we would feel very lost and isolated. They’ve been a lifeline for Rita and us as her parents, offering guidance, emotional support, practical help, and a community that understands. They have helped her rebuild confidence and independence in a world that was not designed with her in mind.

As a group we would welcome any donations, however small, and it is so much appreciated. You can donate here - Michael Nobbs is fundraising for Royal Society for Blind Children