I did not stop running up the infamous Otley hill - but it is nothing compared to what my friend is going through, says Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon fundraiser from Mirfield
A marathon runner from Mirfield has raised nearly £8,000 for a dementia support group in Bradford.
Richard Henry, 60, completed the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on Sunday, May 10, in support of his friend, Paul Riordan, who was diagnosed with young-onset dementia several years ago.
Richard has fundraised for Pathways, a support group for those affected by young-onset dementia, which has been a “lifeline” for Paul and his wife Jill.
The Bradford-based group, which organises guest speakers, activities and social outings, provides connection, understanding, and a sense of community for people living with the disease and their families.
The pair have been friends for over four decades and built a good relationship after their football playing days in the Heavy Woollen league when Richard became secretary of St John Fisher and Paul took over as the manager.
“It was a great day and the atmosphere was unbelievable,” Richard said after completing the marathon. “I have done a few marathons and that was right up there in terms of the support you got, and I had family and friends en route to spur me on.”
Paul and Jill were part of Richard’s support network on the day, cheering him on throughout the 26.2 mile challenge.
Richard said: “I haven’t had as big a reason to get round a marathon as this one before and I have never raised as much money as this before.
“Pathways are over the moon with what’s happened and are overjoyed. The total just keeps going up.”
Richard was also helped by award-winning Cleckheaton video production firm Sam Teale Productions which put together a video highlighting his fundraising efforts.
To donate to Richard’s fundraiser, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2mm64mxj