A 25-year-old runner from Chorley has embarked on an extraordinary 42-marathon challenge across Britain to raise funds for his mother, who is living with advanced Multiple Sclerosis. Benji Wilkins set off from John O'Groats on day one of his gruelling journey, aiming to raise £50,000 to support the care, treatment, and mobility needs of his mother, Hannah.
The Challenge
Benji will run more than 1,100 miles from John O'Groats to Land's End in a challenge called 'Marathons for Mum'. Over 42 days, he will cover the equivalent of a marathon every day. This week, he is running through Scotland, tackling some of the most demanding sections of the route.
Inspiration
Hannah was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2019 after more than a decade of worsening symptoms and numerous hospital visits. Despite years of decline, she was unable to access treatment without a formal diagnosis. By the time support began, she had lost most of her mobility and now relies on a wheelchair full-time. She experiences daily weakness, stiffness, chronic pain, and fatigue, and spends most of her time downstairs at home.
Benji said: "Despite all she is going through, my mum takes her responsibilities in the home seriously and has always been the best mum any of us could ask for. I'm not an elite athlete. What I am is stubborn. This challenge is about showing my mum that she's not facing this alone."
Fundraising Goals
Benji, who runs a business selling magic tricks, hopes to raise funds for private treatment, mobility equipment, and essential home adaptations not fully available through standard care. He stated: "As Mum's condition progresses, there's a real possibility private care will become essential. Powered walking aids and exoskeleton technology could make a life-changing difference to her independence, while home adaptations would help her move safely around the house."
Awareness
The challenge also aims to raise awareness of the realities faced by families living with progressive neurological conditions and the impact of delayed diagnosis. Benji will document every mile online as he runs from John O'Groats to Land's End. The areas he's covering in Scotland include Lobster, Helmsdale, Dornoch, Alness, Inverness, Invermoriston, Loch Ness, Great Glen Way, Stronaba, Ballachulish, Bridge of Orchid, Rowchoish, and Milngavie.
To support the challenge or find out more, visit marathonsformum.com or follow @marathonsformum on social media.
