The fourth Annual Little Reds Memorial Run will take place this weekend, continuing the tradition to honour the life of local girl Savanna "Little Red" Symonds and raise much-needed funds for Asthma Australia.
The event was founded by Savanna’s parents, Natalie Coall and Nathan Symonds, following the tragic loss of their 14-year-old daughter in 2020 due to a fatal asthma attack.
Savanna, a passionate athlete and a proud member of the Rutherglen Cats football team, had become a beloved figure in the local community, admired for her strength and determination despite living with asthma.
In her memory, the Symonds family created the Memorial Run to raise awareness of asthma, support Asthma Australia, and honour Savanna’s legacy of courage and resilience.
Over the past four years, the community has come together to raise an impressive $34,000, with $6,000 already collected ahead of this year’s event.
The goal is to raise another $15,000 this year, bringing the total funds raised to $50,000, all to support asthma research, education, and vital services for the 2.8 million Australians living with asthma.
Since its inception, the Little Reds Memorial Run has grown into a major community event, raising funds that directly contribute to asthma research, education programs, and essential services for those living with the condition.
Natalie has spoken candidly over the past four years about her family’s experience with asthma- a silent condition that affects millions of Australians with more than 400 people dying from it every year.
“We want to make sure that no other family has to go through what we did and that they have access to the support, resources, and education,” Natalie said.
The Memorial Run is more than just a fundraiser. It is a celebration of Savanna’s life and continues to unite family, friends, and local supporters in a shared mission to raise awareness and inspire change in the fight against asthma.
“This day is so special because it’s all about Savanna,” Natalie said.
“It’s a chance for us to come together, remember her, and celebrate the amazing impact she had on all of us.
“The support we’ve received over the years has been overwhelming, and it means the world to us. We’re grateful to everyone who has joined us in making this day a reality.”
To help reach the fundraising goal, donations are being accepted online through the official donation page.
All funds raised will go toward supporting Asthma Australia’s important work. By participating in the run or donating, the community can continue to honour Savanna’s legacy and make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by asthma.
The run kicks off Saturday morning, 10.30am at the Newmarket. To support Savanna’s legacy or make a donation- visit fundraise.asthma.org.au/fundraisers/nataliecoall/in-memory-of-savanna-symonds-2024