Last month we were beyond proud to celebrate our incredible Head of Support, Richard Buchan, as he embarked on a truly awe-inspiring journey in the name of charity. In a beautiful tribute to his nephew, Rich ran an astonishing 130 miles in 30 hours—yes, you read that right!—all to raise funds for charities very close to his heart.
When we learned about what Rich was hoping to achieve the whole team was right behind him (in spirit!) We were eagerly waiting for updates over that weekend to hear how he had got on, our very own real-life Forrest Gump!
Rich’s challenge was to start in Coventry and end in Walthamstow. He was doing this in memory of his nephew Dylan who passed away last year from a rare genetic disorder called Sandhoff Disease. Rich was raising money for two charities, Haven House Children’s Hospice who helped care for him and SLOW which is a charity for bereaved parents.
Both of these charities do great work and have helped his sister and family immensely and was so humbled by any donations that were received.
So, the weekend came and went, and we are so proud to share with you an insight into the challenge and from Rich himself about how it felt:
What an experience that was! When I thought of the challenge to run between Coventry and Walthamstow, I knew it was going to be tough, but I wasn’t prepared for just how tough it would be. I thought the first section to the canal would be easy, but I got lost a few times and was even attacked by a couple of dogs, which definitely kept me on my toes!
Running along the canal was easier to navigate, although I still got lost when I had to leave the canal during the tunnel section. The route I had plotted had changed due to a new housing development so the path was no longer there!
Around 20 miles in a friend joined me which made things easier. We thought we’d avoided the circling thunderstorms, but they managed to catch up with us in the end. Luckily, the rain didn’t last long, and I was able to continue without getting too wet.
I followed the canal until Milton Keynes. After a quick pot noodle, I was able to continue. The route through Milton Keynes was uninspiring, so it was good to be back on the canal as night fell. My next stop was Tring, where I knew a pizza was waiting for me. I misjudged how long that section would take and arrived later than intended. I also inadvertently ran out of data, which meant no one could track me, so it was a relief to see my dad and brother still waiting with the pizza at 1 a.m.! Fully fuelled, I carried on for the last section along the canal.
I left the canal at Hemel Hempstead, knowing I had just over 20 miles to go until I’d be joined by more friends at Hertford. This was the start of the hardest section as the heavens opened as soon as I left the canal. Most of this section was uphill on old railway lines, and combined with the torrential downpour, it was a very long night. I was able to change out of the wet clothing in the morning but the damage to my feet was done—they were in a sorry state by this point. I met up with my friends soon after, and they dragged me through the last 20 miles.
In total, I ran 128 miles, which took 34 hours to complete. I wouldn’t have taken on the challenge if I didn’t think it was possible, but it was still a great achievement to make it to the finish line. I don’t think I’ll be doing anything like this again!
This was a big challenge, but it doesn’t come anywhere close to the challenges families face when dealing with children with life-limiting conditions. Through Haven House Children’s Hospice and SLOW (Surviving the Loss of Your World), your donations will help families in difficult circumstances.
Rich has raised just under £4,000 – there is still time to donate should you wish to use the below link:
From everyone at Active – WELL DONE RICH, we’re so proud of you.
Haven House Children’s Hospice were a lifeline with music, yoga and physiotherapies keeping Dylan active and providing a loving community of friends. They provided at home respite care when Dylan was well, and 24hr nursing cover when he was at his worst. They are an extraordinary group of people.
SLOW – Surviving the Loss of Your World is an amazing charity providing physical and digital support groups for bereaved parents. Run by bereaved parents SLOW has provided a much-needed space and place for Dylans parents to meet with others and commune with other parents. There is a surprising lack of coordinated support for bereaved parents so SLOW has been invaluable support to the whole family.
More about what Active has done for Charities this year:
