Liverpool Care Home Residents Lead the Way at Anfield 5K for LFC Foundation
Residents and colleagues from Thornton Hall and Lodge Care Home in Crosby, Liverpool, laced up their trainers and proudly took on the Run to Anfield 5K this past weekend – all in support of the LFC Foundation. Not only did the team complete the challenge, but they also topped the fundraising leaderboard, raising an impressive £670 and counting.
Residents Harry (86), Irene (79), Margie (80) and Jimmy (80) were assisted by a dedicated team of colleagues, including Michelle (Northwest Regional Operations Manager), Emily (Activities Coordinator), Mark (Unit Manager), Phil (Senior Care Assistant) and Molly (Care Assistant).
With a lifelong love for Liverpool Football Club, taking part in the event was a dream come true for many. But it also served a greater purpose – to prove that age is no match for determination and team spirit.
Resident Irene, who has lived with Parkinson’s for 12 years, shared: “I never thought I’d be able to do something like this. The whole experience was incredible.”
Jimmy, who also lives at the home and is described as one of the biggest Liverpool fans, had a nostalgic moment after the run to Anfield. He said, “I used to come here (Anfield Stadium) when I was young, and look at it now. It’s absolutely making me cry. You’ll never walk alone and you’ll never beat the Reds.”
One unforgettable moment came when Harry, who has limited mobility, amazed everyone by standing up and walking over the finish line. “The atmosphere was unbelievable, and all those weeks of training paid off better than I ever imagined! I managed to walk across the finish line, surrounded by my friends at my favourite club’s grounds. I’ll never forget this moment.”
While the 5K proved more of a challenge than expected, the group stayed strong thanks to teamwork, resilience and overwhelming community support. Now proudly wearing their hard-earned medals, the team have become local celebrities within the home and the wider Crosby community.
“This was about more than just completing a 5K and raising funds for the LFC Foundation,” said Michelle. “It was about showing the world that our residents can achieve amazing things no matter their age. We couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Emily said, ‘On behalf of everyone at Thornton Hall and Lodge, we would like to thank everyone who supported us. Your encouragement and cheers throughout the 5k made all the difference and gave us that push we needed! A huge thank you to everyone who sponsored us too. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
