Search for
Search for
Search forDash to Monaco in Jen's memory
Friday, September 05, 2008, 09:00
Gavin Rashbrook left Penllergaer yesterday for a 72-hour dash to Monte Carlo, in Monaco, and expects to be back by Monday afternoon.
He is travelling with brother-in-law Darren Hibbert, and with another family member very much in his thoughts.
Mr Rashbrook is raising money in memory of his 16-year-old daughter Jenny, who died in 2006.
"She is with me every minute of the day — even now — and she'll be permanently in our minds all the way," said Mr Rashbrook, of Llwynhendy, near Llanelli.
Jenny was born with a heart defect but lived a full and normal life until she was 15, when doctors decided she needed an operation to insert a false artery between her heart and lungs.
"Initially, it went well, but it took her a long time to recover," said her dad.
In December, Jenny underwent a second, smaller operation but suffered a major heart attack while in theatre.
"They revived her, but she died a week before Christmas," said the 41-year-old.
Mr Rashbrook is hoping to raise £3,000 for the British Heart Foundation with his trip.
"If we can help another child to live, and the money raised means another family does not have to go through what we have been through, then it's worth every mile, second and penny," he said.
"Jenny fought against the odds everyday of her life, and it's with that same spirit we face this challenge."
Mr Rashbrook, who works as a parts delivery driver for Sinclair Garage in Penllergaer, has two other children — Vicky, aged 16, and 22-month-old Benjamin.
He said the garage has helped by servicing and sprucing up the VW Mk 2 car he and Darren are driving.
The Ospreys rugby team are among those who have pledged support.
Mike Allison, Sinclair service manager, said: "Gavin is a brave and determined man, and we are honoured to be able to help him with his challenge.
"We wish him luck throughout his journey."
Mr Rashbrook said he and Gavin will do three-hour alternate shifts at the wheel, but didn't plan to flash the cash at Monte Carlo's plush casinos.
"We're hoping to spend six hours there, and have a quick photo-shoot outside Casino Square among the Lamborghinis," he said.
"My brother-in-law is a Formula One fan, so we're going to do a circuit of the course. We're hoping to get back to Sinclair's in 72 hours."
If you would like to sponsor Mr Rashbrook, you can pledge money at www.justgiving.com/gavinrashbrook
Gavin Rashbrook (right) and Darren Hibbert
Be the first to comment