For the past 6 years, David Lumu has been a familiar face outside the gym in the Exchange Centre car park, working at the car wash rain or shine, 6 days a week. For almost 4 years, he’s also been part of our JD Gyms family, cleaning in the evenings after finishing a full day at the car wash.

David rarely takes time for himself. He sends money to his wife, children, and mum in Uganda, works long hours, and visits Uganda just once a year. Despite all that, he always shows up with a kind word, a warm smile and an incredible work ethic.

Recently, David has received some heartbreaking news. He desperately wants to return home this September to spend meaningful time with his family, but taking extra time off work and affording the travel and stay isn’t easy, especially when working two jobs and providing for his loved ones.

We want to do something for someone who has given so much of himself without ever asking for anything in return. This fundraiser is to help cover David’s travel expenses and allow him to take a little more time off rather than the 3 days he had planned, to be a son, sit with his mum and hold her hand through this difficult time, and be there for his family like he deserves to be.

If you’ve ever had a chat with David, had your car washed by him, exchanged a smile or simply seen how hard he works, please consider donating whatever you can. Every pound makes a difference.

With this in mind, our charity/goodwill raising pots at Comic-Con on the photo ops will be 100% donated (the Star Wars team will be raising separately for Christie Cancer Charity) to David’s fund to enable him to be with his family at this time.

With love and gratitude,

Your JD Gyms Rochdale & Rochdale Exchange team