Miles for Michaela fundraiser for 10th anniversary

LOCAL people are being urged to get their walking shoes on and support a special virtual fundraiser in memory of Michaela McAreavey, ahead of the tenth anniversary of her death.

The Michaela Foundation had planned to host several events in 2021 to celebrate the life of the 27-year-old schoolteacher, who was murdered while on her honeymoon in Mauritius.

But these have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As part of the ‘Miles for Michaela’ virtual fundraiser to mark 10th anniversary of tragic death fundraiser, people are being urged to come together – while staying apart – and collectively walk 10,000 miles by January 10, 2021, which will be the tenth anniversary of Michaela’s death.

John McAreavey, Michaela Foundation chairman, said, “Whilst we hope to have the opportunity to have more social events in 2021, Miles for Michaela is a really fitting fundraiser as it reflects the many miles we’ve had to travel from a very dark place to a place of hope, light and inspiration.

“The fact that it will hopefully engage lots of people, further reflects the collective effort that has enabled Michaela Foundation to become such a force for good over the past ten years.

“This pandemic has been difficult for everyone but we would love to see volunteers and campettes, past and present, parents, supporters, friends and family getting involved in what will be a brilliant way of coming together, while staying apart.

“We would love to see as many people as possible creating fundraising pages for our campaign but if this isn’t possible for you, you can still donate directly via the link below and let us know how many miles you have covered to help us reach our goal of 10,000 miles,” Mr McAreavey added.

Every week, the group will be posting updates on social media and participants can post their photos out walking with your friends and family – make sure to tag Michaela Foundation and use #milesformichaela.

Donations can be made at justgiving.com/campaign/MilesForMichaela