Story added: 23rd May 2017
An inspirational mother-of-two from Mulbarton will bring out the match ball as the Jamie’s Game Community Hero.
38-year-old Michelle Allen, whose children have benefited from the support of one of the Community Sports Foundation’s programmes, is repaying her gratitude to the charity by running for them at the Run Norwich 10k event.
Michelle’s size means that running can be a challenge, but her determination to set a good example to her kids means she will be donning her running shoes for a third successive year this August.
She took up running back in 2014, when she realised that her weight was restricting her even to the point where she was struggling to get up off the floor after playing with her kids.
She acknowledges that her weight gain was due to an unhealthy diet, a result in part to the changes in lifestyle brought on by having children.
Michelle’s relationship with the Foundation began when her 6-years-old was offered a place to attend the free Fit4it health programme, following a weigh-in with her school nurse.
“We were dubious to begin with about attending, however so glad we did. We learned so much and were encouraged a lot. I know all body shapes and sizes are different, but we know check our food carefully and I know to say when to say when she keeps saying she is hungry.”
The programme supports children and their families who have a higher than average BMI through a series of workshops and sport sessions.
Michelle and her children completed the course, and as a result Michelle decided to raise funds for the charity because of the “fantastic things they do and the support they give others.”
“Both my girls are my support and cheering squad. I do not want my daughters to have the same issues that I have, which is why I’ve running this August.”
I want them to see that if I can do things without giving up, so can they.”
Michelle will be accompanied by her two children as she places the Jamie’s Game match day ball on the plinth ahead of kick-off. Please give her a generous welcome!
23rd May 2017
Michelle Allen to be the Jamie's Game Community Hero
22nd May 2017
Spectacular second-half comeback the talking point at fifth charity football match
21st May 2017
A provisional first look at the lineups for Jamie's Game V have been revealed, ahead of this afternoon's match.
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