Team Jude’s 100 marathon challenge

Mel and Dale Simkiss are walking the most difficult of paths knowing that they may one day lose their child.

In June 2018, the Simkiss family received the devastating news that their precious little boy was unlikely to live past his childhood. Jude, the youngest of four children, was born with a rare genetic disorder affecting his brain called Mitochondrial disease. He is unable to move other than slight rocking and will never walk or talk.

This Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week, Jude’s father, Dale, along with six friends, are taking on a massive fundraising challenge to raise awareness and vital funds for the charities that offer his family vital support. Team Jude is currently undertaking 100 marathons in 100 days, which will culminate with Dale taking on the virtual London marathon on 4 October carrying a 16kg rucksack on his back, which is the equivalent weight of his son Jude.

Dale said:

“If you watch Coronation Street, you will be aware of the storyline of Oliver, his diagnosis of Mitchondrial disease and his parent’s anguish about turning his life support off.

 

My family live this reality, knowing that one day we may have to do the same.

 

My son Jude, who is nearly three, has Mitochondrial disease, a life-limiting and debilitating condition for which there is no cure or treatment. He is almost completely disabled and will never walk, talk, see or experience most of the things we all take for granted.”

Team Jude is raising money for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service which supports the Simkiss family, along with Lily Foundation and Genetics Disorders UK. To support Team Jude in their marathon challenge, please visit their fundraising page: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TeamJude