FMB to raise funds for Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity and British Equestrians for Ukraine

FMBs Therapy Systems have announced the launch of a fundraising draw aimed at raising vital funds for one of equestrian’s much-loved charities, Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity, and the new campaign, ‘British Equestrians for Ukraine’.

Fifty percent of the proceeds from the draw will be donated to Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity, whose aim is to support vital research into osteosarcoma (a rare form of bone cancer), and to grant ‘Willberry Wishes’, equine related wishes to seriously ill people and their families. The charity’s mascot, Willberry, is famous in his own right, often being photographed with top international riders in action at competitions.

The charity was established by talented horse rider, Hannah Francis, following her diagnosis with an aggressive form of bone cancer in 2015. Hannah was determined to ensure that no- one with a diagnosis of osteosarcoma in the future would have to endure the bleak prospects and archaic treatment regime that she had, hence the importance of vital funding for research of osteosarcoma, which usually develops in growing bones and therefore principally affects children and young adults. Hannah established her charity in March 2016, before tragically passing away in August 2016 at the age of just 18 years old.

The other fifty percent will be donated to ‘British Equestrians for Ukraine’ to assist in answering the call from the Ukrainian Equestrian Federation to help protect their beloved horses. They desperately need supplies on the ground including feed, forage and shavings to enable an acceptable level of welfare to be maintained.

British Equestrians for Ukraine has been set up to help facilitate a supply chain to meet the immediate need for goods on the ground as well as raising money to help purchase supplies and cover the costs associated with transport. The campaign is being Spearheaded by British Equestrian (BEF), The British Horse Society (BHS), the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and World Horse Welfare.

FMBs Therapy Systems founder, Serena Hickson, shares,

The last two years have been tough on everyone but particularly charities. Now we have the heartbreak of seeing what is happening in Ukraine which is devastating. We just want to play our part in giving Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity a boost, as well as supporting the efforts in protecting horses in Ukraine. We have therefore committed an additional £1000 to the charitable donation pot on top of funds raised.”

Running between March and May, for just £7, entrants to the draw will be in with a chance of winning an Activo-Med Combi Pro II rug. With its powerful Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy (PEMF) combined with deep massage functionality, it’s the best tool in the box when it comes to rehabilitation, injuries or general maintenance.

Serena adds, “FMBs have been working with the brand for over 15 years now, and the Activo-Med Combi Pro PEMF and massage rug is certainly the most sort-after therapy rug. You just have to look at the number of British Team Members who are using them! Many for the past 15 years! Each would endorse their value in equine injury prevention, performance and recovery.”

For more information and details of how to enter, please see – fmbs.co.uk/raffle/

The live draw takes place at Badminton Horse Trials on Saturday 7th May.

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