Three dedicated supporters took on the challenge of the London Marathon at the weekend to raise vital funds for cerebral palsy charity Stick 'n' Step.
The three marathon places were made available to Stick 'n' Step thanks to the generosity of Chester Lions, enabling the charity to benefit from one of the world's most iconic fundraising events.
Inspired by Personal Connections
One of the runners, Josh Smith from Runcorn, was inspired to take part after seeing first-hand the impact Stick 'n' Step has had on his friend and colleague Simon's daughter, who has cerebral palsy and is supported by the charity. Josh said: "Stick 'n' Step gives children with cerebral palsy the support, skills and confidence they need to thrive. They help children achieve things many of us take for granted. Every donation helps them continue providing the specialist, transformative support that makes those moments happen. This journey has pushed me far outside my comfort zone, but every step has reminded me why I'm doing it - for a cause that genuinely changes lives."
Another runner, Wirral-based solicitor Lydia Brindley, took part after being inspired by her father, who has completed an incredible 50 marathons. Lydia is a director at Graystons Solicitors, a legal firm that supports Stick 'n' Step, and she wanted to give something back to the charity. She said: "I'm in awe of long-distance runners, so signing up to a marathon felt like a huge challenge. The training has been hard, but I'm really enjoying the health benefits that are coming with it. I feel healthier and happier."
A Father's Motivation
The third runner was Ekow Ackom-Mensah, whose seven-year-old son Xander attends Stick 'n' Step's Runcorn centre, bringing a deeply personal motivation to the challenge. Ekow added: "Xander attends Stick 'n' Step every week and they do an amazing job for him and all the other children, helping them develop to their full potential. Most importantly, they ensure all the therapy is actually fun."
Funds raised through the London Marathon will help Stick 'n' Step continue delivering its specialist services, giving children the opportunity to build physical skills, confidence and independence in a supportive environment.
Stick 'n' Step provides weekly conductive education sessions to children and young people with cerebral palsy up to the age of 25. The charity relies on supporters and volunteers to help raise over 90% of the £750,000 required to deliver its services to over 100 families each year at its Wallasey and Runcorn centres. Find out more about the charity by visiting www.sticknstep.org.
