Fundraising father nominated as this month's Col U Community Champion

Ian Miller has been supporting his son Brodie who was born with a very rare heart disease and had to go through corrective surgery at just 15 months old. 

He now requires annual check-ups at the hospital but is still thriving despite everything he has faced. 

Fatherly Love - Ian and Brodie at the stadium (Image: Colchester United) Ian was nominated as a Colchester United Community Champion for his fundraising efforts, having run marathons to support Tiny Tickers, a charity that supports those affected by heart conditions as babies.

He has run marathons in Edinburgh, Dublin, New York and Florida, with Brodie travelling around the world with him.

Ian and Brodie are both huge football fans. Ian has hosted charity matches for Tiny Tickers at the JobServe Community Stadium and Brodie is now even able to play football himself, something which his parents thought may not be possible, at one stage.

Admiration - Brodie on Colchester United's pitch (Image: Colchester United)

A spokesman for Colchester United said: "Ian and Brodie will be enjoying a stadium tour and some time in the Club’s new Family Fan Zone, before watching the teams warm up and being presented with an award pre-match.

"We’d like to congratulate both on their incredible work and hope they both enjoy a day to remember."

Do you know a local hero who deserves recognition for their fundraising efforts, their volunteering, or for going above and beyond? If so, we’d love to hear about them! Email david.hooley@colchesterunited.net to submit your nomination.