Boxing Day is traditionally associated with recovering on the sofa from the excesses of Christmas Day but for John Reynolds, Children’s Hospice South West’s ‘Champion for Children’, it will mark the start of his epic five day, 374 mile running challenge.
John, aged 50, will be setting off from his home in Radstock at 8am on Boxing Day to start a challenge which will see him cover the distance of 14 marathons in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW). John is planning to cover 74 miles a day with just a couple of hour’s sleep in between. At a time of year when most will be avoiding the scales John anticipates burning off up to 40,000 calories. John has taken on a number of previous challenges to raise money for CHSW, including a 140 mile non-stop run and a four-day 300 mile run.
His achievements are made even more amazing due to the fact that a severe illness meant John was unable to walk just seven years ago.
John Reynolds, from Radstock said: “Christmas is such an emotional and poignant time for the families that visit CHSW. It just seemed like the ideal time to show support for them by taking on another challenge. Their strength and determination will be my inspiration to complete the miles. The bonus for me is that I can indulge as much as I like in the run up to Christmas as I know I will be burning it all off!”
Tamara Downes, CHSW Community Fundraiser said: “We are so grateful to John for all the time and energy he puts into his challenges, especially at such a special time of year. It would be lovely to see as many people as possible out on the streets cheering John on. He will certainly provide inspiration for a New Year health kick!”
The money raised will go to support the vital work at CHSW. Each hospice is a friendly ‘home from home’ where the whole family can make the most of the precious time they have together: as a result all the rooms are filled with joy and the sounds of laughter.
When the time comes, the hospices provide a comforting and familiar place to say goodbye. With the support of specially trained staff, families are cared for every step of the way; throughout the life of the child, through bereavement and beyond as long as it’s needed.
Your support means Children’s Hospice South West can help children with life limiting illnesses and their families, to find out more visit: http://www.chsw.org.uk
Details of John’s route can be found at www.wellscityharriers.org.uk.
