Sadly my father in law was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis in September 2021. Before this diagnosis he loved nothing more than playing cricket every weekend, spending time with his family and friends and in his spare time would revamp cricket bats for fun which then quickly became his full time hobby. 

This horrible disease meant that for the last two years of dads life he was unable to do the things he loved the most. He quickly needed to be on oxygen for 24 hours a day, meaning simple daily tasks became incredibly difficult. His need for oxygen quickly increased and it unfortunately got to the point where he was unable to leave the house. 

He never once moaned, never once grumbled about everything he was going through. Like the true gent he was, he took it in his stride, remained positive and fought his hardest to the very last day of his life. In his words he would always say ‘I want to live’. 

Unfortunately on the morning of 8th June 2023, Ricky took his last breath. 

I am running the great north run to raise awareness of the charity which supports Pulmonary Fibrosis and we hope that one day soon they find a cure for this devastating disease. 

Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF) is a growing community of patients, families, researchers and healthcare professionals striving to find a cure for pulmonary fibrosis so that everyone affected by the disease has a better future. We provide personalised support to patient and families - and raise awareness of pulmonary fibrosis through campaigning, fundraising and education. We are also committed to funding research to improve the quality of life for people living with pulmonary fibrosis today and tomorrow.