Supporters take on Exeter Inflatable 5K in aid of Open Up
A fantastic group of supporters took on the Exeter Inflatable 5K at Westpoint in August to raise funds for our charity, Open Up.
The Children Family and Health Devon Team, who raced together, said: "A huge thank you to everyone who sponsored and supported our team in completing the Inflatable 5K at Westpoint in aid of Open Up. We had an amazing time bouncing, sliding, and running our way through the course - all to raise money for a fantastic cause."
Sarah and her son Arthur were also among the participants. Sarah told us: "We both thoroughly enjoyed it. Arthur was like a rocket racing around and smashed 2 laps, completing his first 5km! I had to try and keep up with him."
Adding even more fun to the day, Zoe Fischer, Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor at Franklyn Hospital, took on the course in a giraffe costume - despite temperatures nearing 30°C!
Zoe said: "It was naturally one of those heatwave weekends where the temperature was etching towards 30C before I'd put the un-breathable giraffe costume on. Said costume was designed more for sleeping and lounging on a sofa than attempting an obstacle course, which added to the challenge!"
"The event attracted participants of all ages and abilities - from those attempting a personal best to families with kids who walked the whole thing. In three words: fun, inclusive, hot.
"I chose to support Open Up because I work on Rougemont ward and have seen first-hand the benefits that patients get from activities funded by the charity - opportunities that otherwise wouldn't be possible. I want to continue providing that for them."
The funds raised will go directly towards projects that enhance mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity services across Devon and beyond, improving day-to-day experiences for patients, carers and NHS staff.
If you'd like to help Open Up make a difference, take a look at their Ways to Support Us page. Whether you're keen to take part in an event, organise a fundraiser, or simply make a donation, every effort brings them closer to building healthier, more inclusive communities.