Story
Three Peaks showed his strength. Coast‑to‑Coast shows our support.
Ollie did the Three Peaks so we’ll do The John Muir Way! 134 Miles— Raising Awareness for Marfan Trust.
As many of you know, Oliver was 10 when he was diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome, following his admission to hospital a few months previously due to a spontaneous collapsed lung. It was recognised during this time that he had a lot of the markers for Marfan.
His “secret power” now, as he calls it, is the titanium staples holding part of his right lung together.
Marfan is a progressive genetic connective tissue disorder, therefore affecting a large proportion of the body, including the heart, lungs, eyes, and joints. He now has annual cardiology check ups to assess the dilatation of his aorta, and has had to change some of his sports activities. However, none of this stops him from smiling through life.
He’s an incredible, funny, brave lad — and if you meet him, you’ll spend half the time laughing with him and the other half wondering how he stays so positive.
7-8 months after his surgery Ollie climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon — the full Three Peaks — because he wanted to raise awareness for the charity that supports families like ours, The Marfan Trust.
It’s our turn. No hiking, just biking.
Definitely out my comfort zone! The Challenge — Coast‑to‑Coast for Marfan Trust.
This spring, five friends and I are cycling the John Muir Way, from Helensburgh to Dunbar — 134 miles in 3 days. Ollie’s old rugby coaches and I cycling at Easter for him. Are we cyclists - no. Are we good at directions - no! After they knew about Marfan, they’ve been incredible in keeping him involved. The more people that understand Marfan, the more people we have looking out for Ollie, that is our goal.
We’re doing it to raise awareness of Marfan Syndrome and to honour the determination Ollie shows every single day.
The Route:
Helensburgh → Linlithgow (~45 miles)
Linlithgow → Musselburgh (~45 miles)
Musselburgh → Dunbar (~44 miles)
Why Awareness Matters:
Marfan Syndrome is often missed until something serious happens — like a collapsed lung or an enlarged aorta. Early diagnosis saves lives. Awareness helps families recognise the signs sooner. Support helps them navigate the uncertainty.
How You Can Help:
If you’re able to donate or share this page, thank you.
Every pound helps raise awareness, support families, and shine a light on a condition that too often goes unnoticed.
