Please see below for our monthly email update regarding Ed Slater, his battle against Motor Neurone Disease, and any related fundraising updates.
We will continue to provide regular updates on Ed, including the fundraising support he receives from the wider rugby community.
Slater Cup Double-Header
We are now just two weeks away from Leicester Tigers visiting Kingsholm on Saturday 25 November for the Slater Cup double-header.
The Slater Cup, named after Ed, was launched in the 22/23 season to help raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
This season will see the men’s and women’s teams battle it out, with Gloucester Rugby kicking off the afternoon at 3.05 pm before reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury face their female counterparts at 6 pm.
Both Gloucester teams will wear the Slater Cup shirt, designed by Ed’s children, Flo (9), Eadie (8), and Frank (5), last season. Shirts are still available to buy, with £10 from every shirt going to the 4Ed campaign. Get your 4Ed shirt here.
Tickets are now on sale from just £27.50, gaining you entry to both fixtures. Get your tickets here.
Gloucester Rugby Foundation
The Gloucester Rugby Foundation has officially adopted the 4Ed campaign as a restricted fund, securing the campaign’s future legacy and its transformative impact.
With the campaign now officially part of the Gloucester Rugby Foundation, all money raised will be used to provide bursaries for families affected by MND in Gloucestershire to access support, including funding vital equipment, changes to the home, family days out, or psychological support.
The 4Ed campaign will also seek to raise continued awareness of MND as well as provide access to Kingsholm for support sessions and respite care through sports adapted activities.
Fundraising events will take place throughout the season and beyond. This will include the return of the 4Ed Dinner, following its hugely successful debut in March 2023, and the launch of our 4Ed cycle sportif, giving everyone the chance to get on their bikes and raise vital funds.
If you would like to enquire about the 4Ed campaign, including fundraising, please email 4Ed@GloucesterRugby.co.uk
‘With You Every Step’ now published
Written by rugby legends and fundraising heroes Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield, ‘With You Every Step’ is now available for purchase here.
A truly inspiring exploration of kindness, empathy and the celebration of genuine friendship, illustrated by a collection of bestselling and award-winning illustrators.
For every copy sold, Macmillan Children’s Books will donate 50p to be split equally between the Motor Neurone Disease Association and Leeds Hospitals Charity.
Fundraising update
Thanks to the kindness of more than 7,200 people, the 4Ed Fund has now raised more than £253,750 to help support Ed and his family.
If you would like to help, please donate to the fund.
We will continue to keep you updated on Ed and the support efforts from around the community. Thank you to everyone that has helped Ed. Whether that is through donations, fundraising efforts or even sharing his story, it is very much appreciated.
