Barmitzvah boy’s 100-mile walk for Jewish Care
Ahead of his big day, Jake Segal raised more than £500 for the Charity's Dementia Services, in memory of his papa
Jake Segal wanted to do something different for his forthcoming barmitzvah – so carried out a 100-mile walk to raise money for Jewish Care Dementia Services, in memory of his late papa.
The 12-year-old Yavneh College pupil said: “My papa Norman died from Alzheimer’s when I was three. With my barmitzvah coming up, I wanted to do something to remember him as it makes me sad that he won’t be there and I know he would have been really proud of me.”
Completing the challenge within a month, he walked around the capital with friends, explored Hampton Court and spent a day in Brighton walking with his grandma and grandpa. He said: “I felt it was important to raise money for a Jewish charity to mark my barmitzvah, to help people in the community and because my papa died of Alzheimer’s, I want to help other families who are in the same position.”
Not wanting the task to be too easy, he said: “We didn’t plan or schedule it, but did ensure I went the extra mile by getting off the train earlier than needed and walk to places we’d normally drive to. I found some days easier than others and felt very happy when I finally completed it.”
Proud of his efforts, parents Yvette and Paul said: “He told us he wanted to do something worthwhile to keep active, but to also help raise money for charity. Jake would have loved to have had his papa at his barmitzvah and this is his way of thinking about him.”
His sister Chloe said: “When he puts his mind to something he won’t stop until it’s done! Although he’s a pain, he’s still a very kind, athletic, person.”
Also grateful for his efforts is Esther Gilham, assistant director of fundraising. She said: “We’d like to congratulate and thank Jake for taking on this impressive challenge which shows imagination and dedication. Jake is helping to make a real difference.”
Looking ahead to further fundraising projects, he said: “I had a lot of support from lots of different people and have so far managed to raise more than £500. Although this was initially a one-off, it was a lot of fun and I may do another one some time.”
You can still sponsor Jake by clicking here:
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