Fundraiser completes Tough Mudder challenge for Fund

Student completes Tough Mudder challenge to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund inspired by the support his family received from the charity.

Brendan Gillan, 20, completed the Tough Mudder challenge at Broughton Hall, Skipton on 26 July.

Brendan, who plans to join the RAF after graduating from university, said: “The run was fantastic and I seriously surprised myself with my own capabilities. I thoroughly enjoyed the team spirit and camaraderie shared with all participants.

“I honestly have never felt more awake and alive than the ice plunge. The combination of sneaky ice cubes dropped on my top by an event volunteer and the completely unexpected depth of the ice pool made a cold shower feel like a bubble bath in comparison.”

Brendan continued: “I come from a military family, with several relatives having served in different branches of the Armed Forces. My biggest connection is through my dad, Chris Gillan, who served in the RAF for nine years. His career unfortunately ended after he sustained an injury while serving, preventing him from continuing his service. 

“My family received support from the RAF Benevolent Fund after my dad's RAF career ended because of a service-related injury. During that time, our family home was flooded, and the Fund's support made a real difference. 

“Having seen first-hand the difference that support can make, I wanted to give something back by raising money to help them continue supporting other RAF families.”

He added: “Tough Mudder seemed like the perfect event to test myself physically while supporting an amazing charity. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me with this challenge.”

Brendan has raised over £300 for the Fund. You can donate to support Brendan’s fundraiser on JustGiving.