A 46-year-old disabled dad has overcome the odds and the elements to complete a wheelchair version of the trek from Land’s End to John O’Groats on Cumbria’s roads.
On January 10, Charles Deans, 46, from Wigton, set himself the challenge of covering the 874-mile distance between Britain’s most northern and southern points, in just ten weeks.
Having battled rain, snow, sleet and hail, Charles last week hit his 874-mile target two weeks ahead of schedule. On one day, he covered more than 53 miles – the equivalent of two full marathons.
Despite suffering cuts and bruises – and losing fingernails along the way – Charles has now vowed to push on and break the 1,000-mile barrier before his fundraising challenge for the Lake District Calvert Trust and Eden Valley Hospice ends on Saturday.
A former builder and landscape gardener, Charles’ life changed after a ‘routine operation’ had a devastating outcome.
He was left paralysed and in constant pain and by 2007, unable even to stand, he was confined to a wheelchair.
Charlie also has no feelings in his legs after two spinal operations were unsuccessful.
Charles, who will wear a T-Shirt designed by local school children as he completes the last leg from the Calvert Trust near Keswick to Eden Valley Hospice said: “Although I’ve completed the 874 miles, I’m determined to push on and smash the 1,000-mile barrier.
“I want to raise as much money as I possibly can for these two fantastic charities.
“It’s been extremely hard but it’s also been hugely rewarding. The sense of achievement is brilliant.”
He continued: “The Lake District Calvert Trust and Eden Valley Hospice are very close to my heart. They provide invaluable care, compassion and support to the Cumbrian community.
“Asking for help is never easy for anyone and more so now with the current situation, these charities need our help now.
“I’m no athlete but I’m determined to make a difference.”
Jennifer Scott, fundraising manager at the Lake District Calvert Trust said: “Charles is an inspiration. He has overcome so much adversity in his life yet remains committed to helping others.
“We are so proud he has chosen the Lake District Calvert Trust and our Emergency Bounce Back Appeal as one of his charities.”
To support Charles go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=CharlesDeans&pageUrl=2
