Robert Pearson set out on an extraordinary endeavour on the 1st October 2022 – a one-year sobriety journey combined with a monumental 630-mile walk along the iconic Southwest Coastal Path. This incredible feat is aimed at raising funds and awareness for The Music Works, a Gloucestershire based charity whose mission is to transform young lives through music.
“My relationship with alcohol over the years has been a difficult one to navigate, when I heard about the OneYearNoBeerMovement I decided a year off would be a really great thing and give me some time to reflect and to choose how I drink in the future, if at all.” says Robert.
The Music Works recently had the chance to catch up with Robert around his fundraising challenge and why he chose to support their charity. According to Robert, there was no better charity to support than The Music Works due to the personal impact they have had on his brother, David, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child.
[Robert] “As far as I can remember David has been into his music, we are quite a musical family, and it was a way for us to really connect with him. However, growing up there wasn’t many opportunities out there to support David with making music. For him now to be able to access an organisation like The Music Works is amazing.”
David has been actively participating in music sessions at The Music Works Hub in Gloucester, utilising their specialist equipment which has enabled him to pursue his life-long passion.
[Robert] “I remember going to one of his music sessions and David sang Coldplay’s ‘Yellow’ all the way through and that is when I thought “wow”! Music has really changed his life; he gets so much enjoyment out of it.”
Robert’s fundraising efforts have already exceeded expectations, reaching over £4,000 and counting. Every pound raised contributes to providing vital resources and support to enable The Music Works to continue its mission of using music to transform lives.
“It was so lovely meeting Robert and his brother recently and to hear their story first hand while witnessing Robert’s dedication to our charity, was truly inspiring. We are so grateful for his efforts and are cheering him on as he tackles the last leg of his challenge.” [Michaela Pearson, Head of Fundraising at The Music Works].
Robert is now completing the last miles of his walking challenge along the coastal path and hopes to end his fundraiser with a music showcase event where he and his brother plan to perform. To follow his progress and support his fundraising efforts, visit Robert’s GoFundMe page here
If you would like to support The Music Works, please get in touch with their Head of Fundraising on: mpearson@themusicworks.org.uk
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