Two dads, David Stancombe and Sergio Aguiar, will run the London Marathon in memory of their daughters who died at a dance class in Southport last year. Their determination is inspiring as they aim to raise money for projects established in their daughters’ memory.
Two dads, David Stancombe and Sergio Aguiar, are running the London Marathon in memory of their daughters who died at a dance class in Southport last year. The event is not only a tribute to their children but also an opportunity for them to raise money for projects established in their daughters’ memory.
A Legacy of Hope
David Stancombe is raising money for Elsie’s Story, a charitable trust that makes grants to assist young people and support others in the Southport area. His daughter, ‘Elsie,’ would be very proud of his efforts, he says. The couple had watched coverage of the marathon on TV last year and she told him he should run the race in honour of her grandmother.
Elsie’s Story will continue to make a difference in the community, supporting causes that bring joy, happiness, and support to children. David Stancombe‘s determination is inspiring, but he acknowledges that it won’t be easy. He wants to enjoy the day and complete the marathon for himself and his daughter.
Elsie's story refers to a landmark court case in the United States, involving a young girl named Elsie Inglis.
Born in Scotland, Elsie Inglis traveled to the US with her family and was later separated from them due to immigration issues.
The 1920s case highlighted concerns about child refugees and the need for more effective immigration policies.
Statistics show that during this period, thousands of European children were separated from their families while attempting to enter the US.
The 'Elsie Inglis case' remains a significant historical example of the complexities surrounding child migration.
A Playground Fit for Heroes
Sergio Aguiar is raising money to build a new playground at Churchtown Primary School, where ‘Alice was a pupil.’ The playground will include a performance stage and library, dedicated to Alice and ‘Bebe, who previously attended the school.’ ‘Alexandra Aguiar says her daughter would have loved to see ‘her friends play on the playground that [bears] her name.”
The project is ultimately about Southport remembering the girls and giving them a lasting legacy. Sergio Aguiar‘s courage to run and focus on the playground project has inspired many, including ‘Jinnie Payne, the headteacher of Churchtown Primary School.’ She says his determination gives her strength and will carry on the work of Elsie’s Story.
Supporting Each Other
The dads are not running alone. Their families will be in London to cheer them on, all wearing hoodies and t-shirts featuring the ‘Elsie’s Story logo.’ Bebe’s parents, Lauren and Ben King, will both be at the marathon to support Sergio Aguiar, while Mrs Stancombe will be there to support David Stancombe.
For both couples, it’s not just about completing the marathon but also about their daughters being with them in spirit. They know that their daughters are watching over them and will carry on their legacy. As they cross the finish line, it’s not just about achieving a personal goal but about making a difference in their community and keeping their daughters’ memory alive.
