May 24, 2024 11:34am
The Brixham College student community is rallying behind Vikki Francis, our Sixth Form Learning Mentor, as she prepares for her three 26-mile marathon charity walks in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.
Every Friday, Brixham College is filled with excitement for "Cake Bake Friday," Vikki’s delicious fundraising initiative that has become a cherished tradition.
Vikki explains: “I am baking a different type of cake each week to supplement the sponsorship I am getting for the walks.
“The first bake was cupcakes with the Alzheimer’s Society decoration. They went down very well with the students – I sold out. I am now baking chocolate brownies and lemon cupcakes.”
Vikki’s baking skills have won over the students, who eagerly purchase her treats. So far, her cake sales have raised more than £230 for Alzheimer’s Society.
Vikki shares: ““Dementia is such a cruel disease that affects so many people. One in three born today will get dementia. The more money we raise, the sooner we can find a cure.
“A close relative continues to suffer from cognitive impairment which manifests itself as short-term memory loss and confusion. It is very distressing for everyone involved.”
The Brixham College students have enthusiastically embraced Vikki’s mission, contributing their own efforts to support her. From organising bake sales and raffles to creating posters and spreading the word on social media, the students are actively involved in raising awareness and funds.
Melody, a Year 13 student commented: “We all know someone affected by dementia, and it is inspiring to see Vikki taking on such a huge challenge.
“We are happy to help in any way we can. Her cakes are amazing, and it is great to see the whole school come together for such a worthy cause.”
Training for her marathon challenge is intensive, and Vikki jokes, “I must not eat too many cakes, or I will never complete the course – and that I am determined to finish. Luckily, the students love the cakes, so there is rarely any left for me.”
The Brixham College community continues to show that when people come together, they can make a significant difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
Vikki’s first marathon walk kicks off on June 8th, starting from the Steam Fair field just outside Brixham. The route includes Broadsands, Fishcombe Cove, Brixham Harbour, Shoalstone, Berry Head, Mansands, Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, and up the estuary to Greenway before ending back at the Steam Fair fields. Her subsequent walks are scheduled for June 29th in Snowdonia and July 6th in the Cotswolds.
Individuals can donate to Vikki’s triple-marathon walks via her JustGiving page.
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/vikki26
