Graeme Souness breaks down in tears as he reveals huge donation from Sir Alex Ferguson
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An emotional Graeme Souness has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson has donated £20,000 to Debra UK for his fantastic fundraiser.
On Sunday, at the age of 70, Souness completed the grueling swim across the English Channel in 12 hours and 17 minutes. The Liverpool legend has raised over £1.2m for charities supporting individuals and families affected by epidermolysis bullosa (EB).
EB is a rare, painful condition that causes blisters on the skin. Souness, who resigned as Sky Sports commentator last month, was inspired to take on the grueling challenge after meeting 14-year-old Ira Grist, who lives with EB.
Souness finished swimming with five others, including Isla’s father, Andy. The former footballer made multiple media appearances to promote the fundraiser and on Tuesday announced a donation by legendary former Manchester United manager Ferguson.
Souness told talkSPORT: “I hope I don’t embarrass him by saying this, but Alex Ferguson donated £20,000 after questioning me for 30 minutes. He’s got a heart of gold, this guy.. “You’ve got to look for it, but it’s there!” I was trying to raise £1.1million. The Scottish player won five league titles and three European Cups during his time at Liverpool. He also won trophies in Italy and Scotland.
Souness enjoyed a reputation as a tough guy throughout his career as a tenacious footballer, a passionate manager and a no-nonsense professional. But much like Ferguson, the former midfielder has shown his golden heart by building a fortune for Debra UK in recent weeks.
The football icon broke down in tears as he broke the news of Ferguson’s donation. Souness has more freedom in his schedule after leaving Sky Sports and is determined to complete more challengers and continue raising money for his charity.
Souness added, “Arctic, something around the Atlantic, something like that.” I have come a long way now.
On his Donate as you Live page, Souness explained why he is raising money for Debra UK. “Since spending time with Ira and her family, I have seen firsthand the extreme pain this devastating condition can cause and the daily challenges it brings.”
“Make a difference.” I wanted to do something I could do.” The life of Islay and the lives of many others living with EB, and the slightly crazy idea of swimming the English Channel was suggested… Please join me in supporting Debra’s plea for a life without. Donations continue to come in for his achievements. “What an effort,” Rangers tweeted, while Liverpool added: “Well done by all involved. Great achievement.”
