A devoted Rutland family is preparing to take on a gruelling Peak District challenge to raise thousands of pounds for charity. Ben Lashbrooke, his teenage son Finn, and brother Barnaby are tackling the 50km walk to fund groundbreaking treatments for a rare genetic condition. The inspiring trio from near Oakham will take on the Peak District Ultra Challenge across July 4-5.
They are raising money for Reverse Rett after Ben’s daughter Lottie was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome at the age of four. The condition is a devastating neurological disorder that primarily affects girls, causing a loss of previously learned skills.
The family is already close to reaching their £4,000 fundraising target but is hoping to go even further. Ben is a doctor who has been fundraising for the charity for more than a decade. He said: “I can’t rest until Lottie and thousands of children like her with Rett Syndrome have access to gene therapy.” “This is why I’m doing my third ultra in three years.” “By accelerating disease-modifying treatments for Rett Syndrome we can bring hope to all those affected.”
Ben understands first-hand the importance of resilience, having suffered a stroke at the age of 31. The medical emergency left him needing months of rehabilitation to relearn basic coordination, including how to walk in a straight line. Now, he is channelling that same determination into raising awareness and funds for the condition.
He also plays a key role within the charity as a member of its medical and scientific advisory board. Lottie, who her father describes as ‘a superstar’, brings joy to everyone around her despite the daily challenges she faces. Her infectious smile, sense of humour and bravery have been a constant source of inspiration for the family.
Joining the team this year is 16-year-old Finn, who will be one of the youngest participants in the event. Finn said: “I can’t wait to tackle this 50k Ultra. My Dad has already done two Ultras, and I’m so excited to be doing it with him.” “It’s going to be hard, but I’m doing it to raise money to help make my sister’s life better.”
As a family, they have seen a remarkable shift in the outlook for the condition over the past decade. When they first began fundraising, treatment options were limited and long-term prospects were uncertain. Now, thanks to organisations like Reverse Rett, gene therapy trials are underway and showing promising early results.
The Peak District Ultra Challenge will see thousands of people take on distances of up to 100km through demanding terrain. For the local family, the 50km route represents both a physical test and a powerful opportunity to drive change. They hope their community in Rutland will rally behind them as they take on the weekend challenge.
Donations to support the family can be made via their JustGiving page. Entries are still open for the Peak District Ultra Challenge. To take part, visit the Ultra Challenge website.
