Currys has partnered with children’s Charity Leo and Friends to help raise more than £40,000 for young families and children being cared for on a neonatal intensive care ward.
The charity, founded by Gladiators star, Zack George, was set up after Zack and his wife Samantha tragically lost their son Leo at 13 days. Leo was born prematurely and cared for at Leicester’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Determined to give Leo a lasting legacy, Zack and Samantha founded Leo and Friends and began fundraising to provide much-needed equipment to support families staying on children’s intensive care wards.
Between 18th and 30th August, Zack, known to Gladiators fans as Steel, completed a mile of burpees every day alongside a host of celebrity friends, including fitness influencer, Joe Wicks, fellow Gladiators including Giant, Legend, Cyclone, Hammer, Electro, Fire and former Premier League star and Wales international, Ashley Williams.
When Zack and Samantha, who are regular customers at Currys’ Leicester store, explained Leo’s story and Zack’s challenge to the store Manager, Dee Parmar, he was determined to support their cause in whatever way he could.
To coincide with Zack’s monumental 13-day effort, Currys set up fitness stations at 13 of its stores across the country, encouraging colleagues and customers alike to emulate Zack – who was once named the world’s fittest man – by taking part in 13 minutes of physical activity… from press ups to running on the spot.
Currys has also donated £5,000 worth of electrical equipment to the Leicester NICU to help support families during the difficult days they spend on the ward. Equipment being sent to the ward includes breast pumps, iPads and electronic baby soothers.
“We’ve known Zack and Samantha as regular customers at our Leicester store for many years and we were heartbroken when they shared the story of Leo.
Dee Parmar Manager of the Currys Leicester store,
We are really proud to be able to support them as they raise money for this wonderful cause that will help many young families for years to come.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to Currys for their amazing support during the launch of Leo and Friends and throughout the tough challenge.
Zack and Samantha George Leo and Friends founders
Their generous donations and commitment to getting involved has made a real difference and has helped us raise vital funds for such an important cause. It has meant so much to have their backing on this journey.”