The University of Chester is set to welcome a runner covering 100 miles to raise awareness of meningitis. Family friend Shaun McEntee is taking on the five-day journey to honour 18-year-old student Aaron Mills, who died from the infection.
Challenge Set Up by Aaron's Father
The challenge was set up by Aaron's father, Anthony Mills, to support the charity Meningitis Now. Shaun will run from Kidderminster to Liverpool, stopping at higher education sites like Chester to highlight risks to young people. The route aligns with a long campaign by the family to warn people about bacterial meningitis, which causes swelling of the brain and spinal cord. The efforts aim to protect teenagers, especially those leaving home for higher education.
Aaron had recently started studying Football Science at Liverpool John Moores University with dreams of working in the sport. As a huge Liverpool FC fan, he spent his life playing, coaching, refereeing and watching matches.
Run Starts at Aggborough Stadium
The run starts at Aggborough Stadium, home of Kidderminster Harriers, where Aaron was a dedicated supporter. Following his death, fans gave an 18th-minute standing ovation and presented his friends with a shirt reading "AARON 18".
The event ends at Anfield on September 20, marking a fitting finish for the young fan. Liverpool FC was described by his family as "his religion".
Father's Motivation and Government Impact
Anthony Mills, father of Aaron, said: "The side mission of the route is to coincide with the awareness raising and campaigning for bacterial meningitis that we have done since Aaron passed. First-year students are at risk and we wanted to visit universities along the route to make some noise and inform students of the dangers of meningitis."
Aaron's story was influential in the recent government decision to vaccinate all 18-year-olds heading to university with a MenB vaccine. Following an emotional meeting with Minister Sharon Hodgson, we wanted this challenge to continue that conversation and help protect other families from experiencing the same loss."
Shaun, whose family offered support while Aaron was in hospital, explained his strong motivation to complete the course. He said: "I want my kids to grow up just like Aaron. My main goal is to raise awareness of the awful disease that took an amazing young man from a perfect family. It shouldn't happen to anyone."
Taking on this challenge is my way of honouring Aaron and helping ensure other families do not have to go through the same heartbreak."
Training and Support
Shaun has never attempted a long-distance run of this size before. He has completed an intense training plan mixing gym work with four runs each week.
Anthony added: "I had always thought that a run from Aggborough to Anfield would be the most fitting challenge in Aaron's honour, but I knew I wasn't capable of doing it myself."
Not long afterwards, Shaun came to me with exactly the same idea. I knew he had the heart and determination to do it. He thought a lot of Aaron, as everybody did."
I am in full support of all the fundraising events and tributes held in Aaron's honour because they keep his memory alive. Shaun's challenge is huge and so poignant. He has my lifelong respect."
Dr Helen Galbraith, senior pro-vice-chancellor and chief operating officer at the University of Chester, commented: "We are proud to support the Aggborough to Anfield challenge and to help raise awareness of meningitis among our student community. Aaron's story is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact this disease can have, and we hope Shaun's visit will encourage students to learn more about meningitis, recognise the symptoms, and ensure they are up to date with recommended vaccinations. We wish Shaun and everyone involved the very best for the journey ahead."
Event Details and Public Invitation
Members of the public can head down to cheer on Shaun as he passes through the campus. He is set to arrive at Exton Park on September 19 at around 3pm.
Event details: Date: Saturday, September 19; Location: Exton Park, University of Chester; Cost: Free. For more information and to donate, visit: https://asbo.muchloved.com/Fundraising/Events/735430054.
