Hi there

I am aiming to create a new world record during the Wigan 10K race on 3rd September 17 where I shall be attempting to complete the longest ever land-walk in a vintage 1930s diving suit – it weighs over 4 stone. The suit has been kindly loaned to me by the Historical Diving Society.

It’s ok, I am not just doing this for a laugh (well, just a bit) but am aiming to raise awareness of a condition that my young son (Harry) suffers from – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / ME. In Jan 16, my son was fine and then a virus turned his life upside down and he hasn’t been able to attend school since. He is 14 years old now. After a long process of elimination, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital diagnosed him with CFS/ME.

My wife and I were shocked at how many other children like Harry were also suffering from this poorly-understood condition and so it has motivated me to do my bit to help. So, this is why I shall be attempting the daftest thing I can think of so as to raise money for - and the profile of - the tiny charity that has supported our son and many others kids like him – FORME (Funds for Osteopathic Research into Myalgic Encephalomelitis…Charity Nbr 1045005). This is a tiny charity that is currently supporting the research being undertaken by Manchester-based Dr Raymond Perrin who developed the Perrin Technique, a manual system of diagnosis and treatment of M.E. / CFS

Given that many sufferers struggle to walk and feel like their legs and feet are made from lead, I thought the weighted suit theme would be a good fit as each boot weighs roughly 25lb !
…………….

Whilst the NHS are doing their best to assist people, there simply isn’t (yet) the understanding and resource to offer sufferers effective treatment (and diagnosis) because the causes are not fully known about. What I do know is that this condition is a long-term nightmare for sufferers and their families and I want to do what I can to help raise awareness of this very debilitating illness.