Redditch Fundraiser Embarks on Epic 350-Mile Ireland Run for Seriously Ill Children
Twenty-one-year-old Samuel Attwell from Redditch is preparing to undertake one of Ireland's most demanding endurance challenges next month. The ambitious fundraiser will attempt to run 350 miles solo from Malin Head to Mizen Head over ten consecutive days in May, aiming to raise £50,000 for children with life-threatening illnesses.
A Personal Mission Fueled by Loss
Samuel's extraordinary challenge is deeply personal. Having lost both his grandmother to cancer and his best friend at just eighteen years old, these profound experiences have ignited a determination that extends far beyond athletic achievement. As an ambassador for Warwick-based children's charity Molly Ollys, Samuel regularly helps grant wishes and provide crucial emotional support to seriously ill children and their families.
"I know how quickly life can change," Samuel explained. "That's why I'm doing this. When you lose the people you love far too soon, it changes you. It makes you realise how precious time is, especially for children who don't get the chance to grow up."
He added: "Running across Ireland is nothing compared to what these families face every day. If my miles can bring smiles, strength, or support to even one child, then every step will be worth it."
The Gruelling Ten-Day Route
From May 18th to May 27th, Samuel will traverse Ireland from its northernmost to southernmost point, covering nearly 350 miles of rolling hills, quiet rural roads, and unpredictable weather conditions. His daily breakdown includes:
- Day 1: Malin Head → Derry — 52km
- Day 2: Derry → Baragh — 68km
- Day 3: Baragh → Ballinamore — 52km
- Day 4: Ballinamore → Ballymahon — 61km
- Day 5: Ballymahon → Banagher — 48km
- Day 6: Banagher → Nenagh — 42km
- Day 7: Nenagh → Bruff — 55km
- Day 8: Bruff → Millstreet — 70km
- Day 9: Millstreet → Kealkill — 55km
- Day 10: Kealkill → Mizen Head — 55km
If successful, Samuel will join an elite group of solo runners and potentially become one of the youngest ever to complete this formidable route.
Making Every Pound Count for Children
Samuel plans to make his challenge highly visible through daily video updates, GPS tracking, live progress reports, and honest documentation of both milestones and setbacks. His fundraising target of £50,000 represents substantial support for seriously ill children.
"£50,000 isn't just a target," Samuel emphasised. "It's the difference we can make to the lives of so many poorly children. If I reach my fundraising target, that money will deliver up to 100 wishes, provide more than 2,500 therapeutic toys and books, and support vital projects in children's hospitals."
He continued: "I'm asking people to join me, not on the road, but in spirit. Every pound is fuel. Every share helps spread awareness. Every message keeps me going. Let's turn every mile into a moment of hope for the children who need it most."
Family and Charity Support
Samuel has already secured over £12,000 in early sponsorship from businesses connected to his family, but needs broader support to reach his £50,000 goal. His father, Dean Attwell, expressed immense pride in his son's undertaking.
"Samuel's courage, determination and compassion shine through every step of this challenge," Dean said. "What he's doing goes beyond endurance—it's about standing with families facing the unimaginable and making a powerful statement of hope for children and families in crisis."
About Molly Ollys Charity
Molly Ollys was established in 2011 by Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw from Warwick following the death of their eight-year-old daughter, Molly, from a rare kidney cancer. The charity supports children with terminal or life-limiting illnesses and their families, with a strong focus on emotional wellbeing.
Their therapeutic toy lion, Olly The Brave, features a Hickman line and detachable mane to help explain and normalise chemotherapy effects. These toys form part of packs delivered to over 70 hospitals and health centres across the UK, accompanied by books from the charity's exclusive Olly The Brave series.
Rachel Ollerenshaw commented: "This is a massive challenge to take on, and I am glad that we can be alongside Samuel as he paces through it. Samuel has done so much for Molly Ollys. For someone at his age to give so much time and energy is very inspiring."
She added: "This is certainly going to be a tough one, and I really hope that he gets all the support and encouragement that he deserves. I know it would mean so much to him to know his efforts have made a very real difference."
