The National Tapathon is now the International Tapathon as Jean Emmett takes on the challenge from Belgium, in memory of her dad, Ken.
“I’m originally from Ayr in Scotland where I had my own dance school, Ayr School of Dancing, for 16 years, teaching tap, modern, ballet, disco, rock n roll, acro-gymnastics and baton twirling. I actually took part in a huge Tap routine for the ITV Telethon in 1988 with my dance pupils.
I moved to Belgium in 1998 where I had my two children, Nicole and Nathan, before returning to teaching dance. I teach tap for adults and also discofit, which is a lot of fun, like I expect the tapathon to be.
It was one of my former tap ladies who told me about the tapathon. I signed up immediately. I love tap, and what better way to raise money for such a good cause.
I know how devastating lung cancer can be; my dad, Ken, was diagnosed in November 2001. He was given six months to live, which was pretty accurate as he died the following April.
I flew over every month to see him. Nicole was a year old, so he got to see her a few times, but I am sad that he never had the chance to meet Nathan.
I’ve enjoyed learning the routine and have even put my own twist on it. The only difficulty I’ve had is space; my house isn’t the ideal dance hall! I love Harrison. He was my favourite in The Greatest Dancer.
I just want to raise what I can for this charity. I realise that, at this dreadful time, many people don’t have the extra money to do this so I’m only sorry I can’t raise as much as I would like but I hope what I do raise will help someone like my dad.”
To donate to Jean’s Tapathon challenge, visit her JustGiving page.
For more information about the tapathon and to take part, click here.