A couple from Stockbridge are taking on the ‘Pedal Paddle Peak’ challenge to raise funds to help their sons who are living with a muscle disorder.
Hannah Black and Nick Best will be fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy UK, a charity close to them as both their sons were diagnosed with Becker muscular dystrophy at an early age.
Hannah said: "Both my brother and grandad showed signs later in life so, even though I knew I was a carrier, it came as a real shock to us when Logan and Albie were diagnosed so young.”
Logan, 10, was just four years old when he was diagnosed. His mother continued: "A teacher noticed his foot starting to contract. We took him straight to the GP, but they didn’t think it was anything to worry about.
"Due to my family history, I pushed for a second opinion, but it took a while. Eventually, we were referred to Salisbury Hospital for some tests. That same day, we received the news that Logan had Becker muscular dystrophy.”
Described by his mum as a ‘smart, sensitive, cheeky little boy’, Logan has daily stretches he has to do alongside his love of swimming, judo and bike riding.
Hannah added: "He does tire easily and what people don’t see is the tiredness at home. It’s almost like an invisible condition to many people, which is one of the reasons I think it’s so important to raise awareness.”
Speaking about his brother, Albie, Hannah said: "His journey will be more challenging. From an early age, Albie was diagnosed with non-verbal autism. During a brain scan last year, he was also tested for muscular dystrophy and that’s when we found out they were both living with Becker.”
The couple are now taking on the challenge in Snowdonia on Saturday, September 14 which includes a 24-mile cycle, a hike to the peak of Snowdon, and a 2.5-mile kayak.
Hannah said: "We love Wales and it’s a special place for us as we went there on holiday not long after Albie was diagnosed, so it felt like a sign. It’s been hard training during the school summer holidays, but we’ve been out walking the dogs and cycling, and I’m sure the adrenaline will kick in on the day."
They have already raised over £1,400 for the charity.
The Challenge and Events Manager at Muscular Dystrophy UK, Kiera Santry has expressed her gratitude to Hannah and Nick for their support: ‘Thanks to fundraising like this, we can continue to fund ground-breaking research and improve understanding of muscle wasting conditions.’
To support Hannah and Nick, visit musculardystrophyuk.enthuse.com/pf/hannah-black
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