Horwich brothers take on Three Peaks in memory of Grandad

7 Sep 2020 12:39
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Two brothers from Horwich, Bolton, will be taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, to raise vital funds for charity Parkinson's UK.

Robert Melia (22) and Matthew Melia (29) who work in banking and finance, are aiming to complete the challenge in memory of their late grandad Harold Challender, who had Parkinson's and passed away in February at the age of 81. The pair will be joined by their uncle Darren Challender (son of Harold) and his son Jake Challender.

The walk which is popular amongst avid hikers and challenge seekers, will see the family climbing the summit of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough on Saturday 12 September. The quartet will begin walking the 24 mile route at 6.30am and hope to finish within 12 hours.

Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and currently there is no cure. It affects around 145,000 people in the UK, including 15,256 in North West England. There are over 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

Robert said:

"Our grandad and Darren's dad Harold was living with Parkinson's for the last six to seven years of his life. He absolutely loved walking around Rivington and its surrounding areas, so it seemed fitting that we completed a walking challenge to honour his memory. We are hoping to raise awareness of Parkinson's and vital money for Parkinson's UK. The charity is doing an incredible job of supporting people with Parkinson's and their families and working fast to find better treatments and a cure for the condition."

Parkinson's UK is the largest charitable funder of Parkinson's research in Europe, leading the way in driving better care, treatments and quality of life for those with the condition.

Katherine Bartrop, Head of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson's UK, said:

"Nobody should have to face Parkinson's alone - or without hope that one day we'll find better treatments and a cure.

"That's why we're so grateful for the continued support from our amazing fundraisers like Robert, Matthew, Jake and Darren, whose fundraising efforts during this difficult time, help us keep our vital support services and research programmes going. Without their support, nothing we do would be possible."

To sponsor Robert and Matthew, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/robert-melia1

To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson's UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising

 

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