🏃♂️ Port Talbot’s Dale Fischer is lacing up his running shoes and heading to Germany for the Köln Half Marathon this October, all in honour of a truly brave young girl, Ava Grace Bird.
Ava, diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer, had to face life-changing challenges from the tender age of one. She’s battled more than many of us can imagine, undergoing surgeries and adapting to life with a prosthetic eye. Yet, through all her obstacles, Ava continues to smile, inspiring everyone around her.
Dale, a longtime friend of Ava’s dad Ian, is running to support LATCH, a fantastic Welsh charity that aids children battling cancer and their families. The charity has been a beacon of hope for Ava and her family, offering emotional and practical support during difficult times.
For Dale, this race is more than just a fundraising event. It’s a deeply personal journey. He last ran the Köln Half Marathon in 2016 with his mum, who sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2024, just 12 days after her diagnosis. Running the same race 10 years later is a touching tribute to her memory.
In 2024, Dale founded Strength Beyond Silence, a group supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Through his endurance challenges, he’s spreading the message that no one should suffer in silence and highlighting causes close to his heart.
Let’s cheer on Dale as he pays tribute to Ava’s incredible courage and commemorates his remarkable mum. Your support can make a world of difference in the lives of families battling childhood cancer. 🌟💪 #RunForAva #TeamLATCH #StrengthBeyondSilence