Five friends of an Oswaldtwistle teenager who died suddenly three years ago are running to raise pounds to help prevent similar tragedies.
Francesca Sanna, known by friends as ‘Mim’, died from anaphylactic shock due to an allergic reaction in October 2007.
Employees from Blackburn Chemicals in Whitebirk – where Francesca worked – have already helped raise more than £18,000 for the Anaphylaxis Campaign from a sponsored skydive, while more than 30 walkers raised money for the Mim Appeal through the Church and Oswaldtwistle Rotary Walk in 2008.
Friends from Rhyddings Business and Enterprise School also held a charity football match, and a 30-mile walk was arranged to coincide with the anniversary of Francesca’s death.
Last year, a car treasure hunt and auction was organised while money has been raised from Easter egg raffles and donations at Franco’s restaurant, owned by Francesca’s father Franco.
Now Francesca’s former work colleagues are pounding the streets in training for the Bupa Great Manchester Run on May 16.
Nicola Grundy, 39, was with 19-year-old Francesca when she suffered her fatal allergic reaction and says she is still painfully missed.
Nicola said: "She only worked here for a year but she was a fantastic girl and we loved her to bits.
"We all miss her still. I was with her the night she died and the reaction was so fast.
"I didn’t realise how violently and quickly these things happened.
"After Francesca died I know the charity helped her mum out quite a bit and they can help other people."
The runners are hoping to beat their fundraising target of £1,000 and are taking donations online at http://www.justgiving.com/mimformation.
On Boxing Day this year there will be a charity concert at the Poplar Social Club in Accrington featuring country music ensemble The Swing Commanders.
For ticket information telephone Lennie Herbert, who has kindly organised the concert, on 01254 871020 or email him on herbert732@btinternet.com.
Francesca’s brother Domenico said: "We’re still extremely grateful to everyone for their continued fundraising for the Anaphylaxis Campaign.
"There are so many worthwhile charities out there competing for people’s money, it’s heartwarming to know people still think so much of Francesca to help organise and support all these events."
