Chase High School charity event to support girl with Friedrich Ataxia

Brogan Johnson, from Leigh, has recently been told she has Friedrich Ataxia – a one in 50,000 disease that causes slurred speech, scoliosis and foot deformity.

Now Max Coole, who has arranged a number of fundraisers for various causes over the last two years, has organised an all-day fundraising event including a series of football matches at Chase High School on June 8.

The day, which the 21-year-old described as his “biggest ever” fundraiser, will be raising cash to support Brogan’s medical bills and Ataxia UK to assist the search for a cure.

Brogan’s mum, Karly, said: “One of the most heart-wrenching moments I’ve ever experienced as a mother was hearing the news that our Brogan had been diagnosed with Friedrich Ataxia.

“It felt as though my world had crumbled around me, I couldn’t find the words to express the pain, couldn’t think straight, and struggled to comprehend the explanation of Brogan’s condition.

“Now, equipped with some knowledge and a network of support, Brogan confronts her condition with unwavering resolve.

“She acknowledges the best she can the hurdles ahead and meets them with extraordinary resilience.”

Karly added that she is thankful for Max and other fundraiser’s support in light of Brogan’s diagnosis.

Max said: “I want to raise money for Brogan because this condition is so rare, there is such a small amount of information, and we need this to get as much exposure as possible.

“Brogan was only diagnosed four weeks back and we want to provide them the chance to look into research, medication and other options to help.”

Max has been organising charity football matches for two years following the loss of his friend, Mason Smith, and has been fundraising for others in his name.

“We reach out to people and fundraise for them, support them particularly if they are going through a recent diagnosis. The event will hopefully be a all-dayer, as so much interest has been shown,” he added.