Wheelchair-bound Darron delighted with half marathon success

The 51-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, battled against the wind and the rain to complete the Blackpool course in his wheelchair with the help of support worker Michelle Pedder. Their efforts raised a tremendous £1,009 to help support children and families from across the North West who rely on the children’s hospice in Chorley for end-of-life and respite care.Darron, of Blackburn, was inspired to take on the challenge after seeing his father, Tom, complete many marathons over the years.Lisa Sumner, team leader at Blackburn and District Supported Housing, said: “When Darron was a child he said he wished he could run, but he was confined to a wheelchair. His dad did a lot of marathons for charity and would always give him his medal. “When Darron told us this story we decided to help him, so his support worker, Michelle, pushed him round for 13 miles.“He got his own badge number and medal and he was proud of himself.“He chose to raise money for Derian House as he had a close friend, Edith Stainton, who was a volunteer there. Sadly she passed away a few years ago so he wanted to do something in her memory and help the younger generation.”Jo Moss, community fund-raiser at Derian House, said: “When Darron signed up for the half-marathon, no one ever expected the weather to be so horrendous. “All credit to Darron and Michelle for accomplishing this feat while battling the elements and for raising so much in the process.“Their determination will help provide much-needed care and support to so many children and families at the very toughest of times. We’d like to say a big thank you to both Darron and Michelle from all of us here at Derian House.”If Darren’s determination has inspired anyone to raise money for Derian House, call 01257 271271 or email [email protected]. Information on how to organise a fund-raising event can also be found on http://www.derianhouse.co.uk