Pip Beattie Smashes Fundraising Target with Marathon Hockey Challenge for MS

MS Society Cymru is thrilled to announce that Pip Beattie, an individual diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), has successfully completed her ‘Hockey Challenge’ fundraiser, raising an impressive £3,235 for the charity. This amount far exceeds her initial target of £1,000, marking a significant achievement in personal fundraising and awareness efforts for MS.

The fundraising event, held on Saturday, 27th July at Whitchurch High School, saw Pip play four games of hockey, totalling 4 hours and 40 minutes or 280 minutes of play time. This challenge represented the four years since Pip first started experiencing MS symptoms.

Just a year prior, in June 2023, Pip had taken on the Welsh 3 Peaks challenge, raising a total of £1,580. Over the course of two days, she conquered Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Cadair Idris, and Pen Y Fan, demonstrating her determination and resilience in the face of her MS diagnosis.

Pip Beattie, the driving force behind these inspiring initiatives, shared her motivation: “Hockey has always been a massive part of my life but I’ve been unable to play since I’ve had MS. Now I’ve started treatment and am feeling stronger, I decided to attempt to play four games, totalling four hours of hockey, which represents the 4 years since I started experiencing MS symptoms. A year ago, I also took on the Welsh 3 Peaks challenge to show other newly diagnosed people that it’s still possible to have an active life and challenge yourself physically, despite the challenges of living with MS.”

The Hockey Challenge event was a resounding success, drawing support from the local community and fellow hockey enthusiasts. Pip expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m so overwhelmed with all the support and everyone coming out to play. Big thanks to everyone who made this day possible.”

This challenge was particularly meaningful for Pip, who has been on a tough journey with MS. Diagnosed two years ago, she has faced various symptoms and a significant relapse. However, her determination and the support of her MS health team have led to improvements in her condition, allowing her to take on these fundraising challenges.

The events not only raised funds but also increased awareness about MS. Pip has been openly sharing her experiences on social media, helping to educate others about the realities of living with MS. Her story, from initial symptoms to diagnosis, through a major relapse and recovery, to completing the Welsh 3 Peaks challenge and the Hockey Challenge, serves as an inspiration to many.

Ceri Bevan, Community Fundraiser for MS Society Cymru, commended Pip’s efforts: “Pip’s determination and courage in taking on these challenges are truly admirable. Her openness about her MS journey and her fundraising efforts not only raise crucial funds but also help to increase understanding of MS in the wider community.”

The funds raised through Pip’s Hockey Challenge and Welsh 3 Peaks challenge will support vital services and research aimed at improving the lives of those living with MS. Donations can still be made through Pip’s JustGiving page.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, impacting about 6,111 people in Wales alone. The funds raised by Pip and her supporters will contribute to crucial services and research to improve the lives of those living with MS.

We encourage everyone to learn more about MS and consider supporting the vital work of MS Society Cymru. Your involvement can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MS.