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I have decided to run the Leeds 10k to support the Ronald McDonald House charity.  My uncle has decided to run this as a close friend of his recently received some amazing support during what has been the worst times of their lives. Hearing my uncle talk about this to me i decided to run the 10K with him and help raise some money for this amazing charity in memory of the cutest little boy. Please read their story below.

Lukas Harry Proud was a happy and fun loving 2 year old.  He loved Thomas the Tank Engine, Lightening McQueen, playing with his friends, going to the park, had lots of fun at nursery, dancing with his Daddy and adored his 10 month old sister, Violet.  Lukas loved life and never slowed down, bringing joy and happiness into the lives of those who loved him with his beautiful smile and cheeky ways.

 On 27 March 2013, after a couple of days of morning nausea, Doctors diagnosed him with a brain tumour which was soon confirmed as medulloblastoma, a highly malignant and aggressive cancer which had already spread around his head and spine.  Lukas was transferred to Manchester Children’s Hospital for surgery and a lengthy course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.  During this time Daddy stayed in the hospital, whilst his Mummy was provided with accommodation at the on-site Ronald McDonald House so she could stay with Violet.

The treatment was intense but Lukas responded well, growing in strength and spirit and in mid-August, a scan showed that the cancer had almost cleared. 

Sadly, on 2 September, Lukas’ symptoms were returning and he was becoming visibly worse, a new scan showed that the cancer, that had not 2 weeks ago almost gone, had now returned.  There was nothing else the doctors could do.

On 12 October 2013, at 1pm, Lukas passed away at home with his loving family and baby sister by his side.

Ronald McDonald House was a home away from home for Lukas, during his many long weeks as an impatient and when he felt up for it, he couldn't wait to visit their playrooms that were bursting with toys, including his favourite train, Arthur.  It provided Lukas' family with a  sanctuary away from the hospital where people could visit him in happy and homely surroundings and even provided a kitchen where they could cook and eat together.  It is located directly next to the hospital which was even more important to Lukas and his family when he reacted badly to the chemotherapy, his Mummy was able to quickly be by his Daddy's side to provide the support Lukas needed at this time.

The workers and volunteers at RMHC do their upmost to support parents and families in any way that they can and genuinely take an interest, they  made Lukas feel very special.  They also run weekly activities for the children and parents, such as craft days, waffle Wednesdays and film Fridays to raise spirits and break the monotony of hospital life.

Any donations will be greatly appreciated, no matter how small, they will help support local families through the toughest of times.

A room at Ronald McDonald House has been sponsored in memory of Lukas as a result of the donations received so far.  The room has been fitted with a plaque, in acknowledgement of the sponsorship, which is fittingly called 'The Railway',  The plaque reads 'This room is sponsored by the friends and family of Lukas Harry Proud - an inspiration to us all'.

 We hope to maintain this for future years as a lasting legacy of Lukas Harry Proud, who really was an inspiration to all of his friends and family.