In the heart of Workington, a unique and inspiring event is set to take place, a 24-hour 'poolathon' dedicated to raising funds for a cause close to many hearts. This event is not just about playing pool; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. The organizer, Stuart Robertson, has taken it upon himself to play pool for an entire day to raise funds for Motor Neuron Disease (MND), a condition that has affected his friend, Craig Hamilton.
Craig, a former tattooist, gallery owner, and golfer, was diagnosed with Progressive Bulbar Palsy, a form of MND, in December 2024. This diagnosis came after a period of gradual decline, with symptoms emerging around 19 months prior. The father of three, who now resides in Workington with his wife Louise, has had a significant impact on the local community, particularly in the golfing world. Starting as a golf professional at the age of 17, he went on to develop Whitehaven Golf Club and worked at several prestigious golf clubs in Cumbria. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to establish Craig Hamilton Art on Cleator Moor High Street in 2015, before stepping back from the business following his diagnosis.
The impact of MND on Craig's life has been profound. He has lost his speech and finds eating and drinking 'close to impossible'. Despite these challenges, he has found solace and support in the Workington Conservative Club's pool team, where he joined last year. This team has become a beacon of light in his life, providing him with a sense of normalcy and community.
Stuart Robertson, a fellow pool team member, was deeply inspired by Craig's attitude and resilience. He decided to organize the 'poolathon' as a way to give back to Craig and raise awareness and funds for MND. The event, scheduled for Friday, July 17, starting at 6 pm, invites players to take on Stuart for 30-minute or one-hour slots, with a £10 donation for each game. Those unable to play can still contribute via Stuart's Just Giving page.
Craig, in turn, expressed his gratitude for Stuart's initiative. He shared how joining the pool team had been a lifeline, helping him regain his confidence and social connections after his diagnosis. Despite the challenges posed by MND, Craig's story is one of hope and determination, a testament to the human capacity to adapt and find joy in unexpected places.
This 'poolathon' is more than just a fundraising event; it's a symbol of the power of community and friendship. It highlights how a simple act of kindness can make a profound difference in someone's life. It also serves as a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. The event is a beacon of hope, not just for Craig but for anyone affected by MND, showing that support and awareness can make a significant impact.
In my opinion, this 'poolathon' is a beautiful example of how individuals can come together to make a difference. It's a powerful reminder that, in the face of a devastating diagnosis, there is always a way to find hope and support. It's a call to action for everyone to consider how they can contribute to the lives of those around them, no matter how small the gesture. Personally, I think events like this are a testament to the human capacity for compassion and resilience, and they should inspire us all to find ways to give back to our communities.
