Family Raising Funds In Shalimar’s Memory
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Family and friends of the late Shalimar Gina Williams will once again walk in her honour and raise funds for WindReach Bermuda during the 20th anniversary of the annual Walk and Roll event on Sunday [June 8].
Participants – walkers, runners, and wheelchair users – can choose between 3K and 5K routes, beginning at the flagpole on Front Street.
Shalimar Gina, a beloved participant at WindReach, was a passionate advocate for the outdoor centre in Warwick, which provides therapeutic and educational experiences for people of all abilities.
Before her passing at age 25 in 2009, she helped raise thousands of dollars for the organisation, frequently earning the title of “Most Funds Raised by an Individual.”
Shalimar Gina’s family has remained deeply committed to supporting WindReach in her memory, calling her their “little giant.”
Her mother, Shalimar Williams, recalls the family’s long-standing connection with WindReach since its founding in 1999.
“When [WindReach founder] Sandy Mitchell shared his vision, we were the parents of a child with a disability who would benefit immensely from such a place,” she said. “He asked if we would support it, and we said, ‘Yes, by all means.’”
Shalimar Gina eagerly participated in many Walk and Roll events, often rallying the community to support WindReach – a cause she held close to her heart.
“I remember in 2009, when she fell ill and was in ICU in Boston, her photo happened to be featured on that year’s promotional poster,” her mother said.
“I said, ‘Look, Shalimar, you need to get better for the Walk and Roll.’ She gave mommy the thumbs up.”
Shalimar died just days before the event. Her funeral was held the same day as the Walk and Roll.
“We pushed her empty wheelchair that morning,” Mrs Williams said. “Many who joined the walk also came to her funeral that afternoon.”
Now, 16 years later, her family continues to walk in her memory.
For this year’s milestone 20th anniversary, they have raised more than $2,000 and rallied a group of participants to honour Shalimar Gina’s enduring spirit and her love for WindReach.
Organisers have also urged participants to “glam up” their wheelchairs and decorate their wheelchairs, pushchairs or strollers an enter as a team in creative attire.
Prizes will be awarded for a variety of categories.
The event is sponsored by Clarien and Butterfield and Vallis.
For more details, visit www.racedayworld.com
To donate to Team Shalimar Gina, click here
