SIDS and Kids WA is proud to launch its inaugural Sunshine Beach Run, an event proudly supported by the West Coast Eagles Football Club.

The Sunshine Beach Run event, which aims to assist those who have been tragically affected by Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, is an initiative of West Coast Eagles physiotherapist Chris Perkin in memory of his unborn baby Jake and wife Cindy who passed away in 2009.

The event will be held at City Beach on Sunday, February 12, 2012, and will see the West Coast Eagles squad take some time out from pre-season training to support this worthy cause.

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SIDS and Kids WA supports grieving families through bereavement counselling services following the loss of a child from miscarriage, stillbirth, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), accidents or illness up until the age of two years old.
 
SIDS and Kids WA chief executive officer Shauna Gaebler said the death of a child affects over 500 Western Australian families every year.

“The Sunshine Beach Run will be a great way for people to show their support for anyone who has lost a child and raise awareness and funds for ongoing research into Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” she said.

West Coast Eagles physiotherapist Chris Perkin said that after experiencing the heartbreaking loss of his baby and wife, he wanted to show support for people who are experiencing a similar situation.

“My unborn baby boy Jake died when my wife Cindy was 35 weeks pregnant,” he said," Perkin said.

“A week later, she unexpectedly passed away. My other two young sons and I were lucky enough to have amazing support from friends, family and work, but some people aren’t so lucky. Let’s help others by enjoying this great event.

“Cindy was a ray of sunshine to everyone she met and I would like to share some of that happiness. The SIDS and Kids WA Sunshine Beach Run will be a chance to enjoy the beautiful beach and share the day with family and friends.

“The support services provided by SIDS and Kids WA are largely funded by donations from generous Western Australians. I would like to encourage everyone to take part in the Sunshine Beach Run to help raise funds to keep these vital services going and to provide education and research to help prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” he said.

West Coast Eagles chief executive officer Trevor Nisbett said the club is proud to be involved in the SIDS and Kids WA Sunshine Beach Run.

“SIDS and Kids WA provides outstanding support to those affected by SIDS,” Nisbett said.

“For this service to continue, ongoing public support in needed, and the Sunshine Beach Run is a great way for people to get behind this worthy cause.”

To register, go online to www.sunshinebeachrun.com.au or phone I-Katcher Events on 9382 1312 and set up your sponsorship page today.

There are prizes for the overall winner and the highest fundraiser.