INSPIRED VOICES #5 Derek Russell

In this  episode of Inspired Voices, Cath and Adam sit down with Derek Russell, as he recalls his fundraising journey which has taken him all over the world to raise vital funds for Alder Hey in memory of his granddaughter Lillian.

Lillian was born in 2004 with a congenital heart condition called Hypoplastic left heart syndrome which occurs when the left side of the heart is underdeveloped. The condition affects blood flow through the heart and requires an operation soon after birth. Sadly, Lillian passed away at just 6 days old, and Derek decided to fundraise in her memory to make a difference for other parents, grandparents and families in his position.

In the past 10 years, Derek has raised tens of thousands of pounds for Alder Hey Children’s Charity, with his fundraising taking him on countless challenges around the world, including the Grand Canyon and Kilimanjaro. With every challenge Derek continues to bring his infectious personality and positive outlook on everything, inspiring numerous fundraisers through the years.

Derek tells us his story in this open and honest discussion with Cath and Adam.

*Episodes of Inspired Voices may contain references to medical procedures and real life stories, which some listeners may find upsetting.