A nine-year-old Superhero fan is shrugging off his own life-changing condition to tackle the Nantwich Duathlon this weekend.
Thomas Robinson, who has Muscular Dystrophy, will aim to run 400 metres, cycle two kilometres and then run a further kilometre in aid of the charity that supports sufferers like him.
He’s hoping to complete the challenge to help fund research into the condition from which he suffers, known as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Thomas’ mum Karen, a graphic designer, said: “He decided he wanted to take part by himself, partly because some of his friends are joining in, and partly because he wanted to raise money for research.
“Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a severe muscle wasting disease, which means Thomas is likely to be increasingly dependent on a wheelchair.
“It is thought that it currently affects up to 1500 boys in the UK.
“There is currently no cure and treatments such as steroids have severe side effects.”
Thomas’ dad Neil, who works for an airline, added: “For Thomas, walking feels like having heavy weights fastened to his legs, so taking part in this Duathlon is a real challenge.”
The Pebble Brook Primary pupil in Crewe was initially hoping to raise £200 for Muscular Dystrophy UK by taking part in the event.
But after having smashed that target in the first 24 hours, he’s setting his goals even higher.
He said: “All the money I raise will be used to help find a better medicine to help boys like me with poorly muscles.”
The big-hearted youngster was diagnosed following a genetic test in January 2008, when he was only six months old.
More information is available at www.facebook.com/thomasmusclefund
You can donate to Thomas’s cause at www.justgiving.com/thomaschallenge or by texting ‘TCHA50 £2’ to 70070 (to donate £2).
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