Hi everyone, I cannot quite believe it but Alfie is hopefully ringing the bell very soon, after over 3 years of treatment. Once he does this my focus will switch to helping children in a similar situation who don't have the same support as Alfie as had.

Ruddis Retreat is an amazing charity that Alfie and his sister have benefited from. However they are in need of help to be able to help more families and keep up their amazing work...

The Challenge

In September to raise money I will be attempting to run the Cleaveland Way (110 miles) over three days, an ultramarathon on each day. Starting at Helmsley following the dramatic Cleveland Way National Trail encircling the North York Moors and the Cleveland Heritage coastline. This will consist of following the stunning Cleveland Heritage coastline visiting the seaside resort of Scarborough, the old smuggling town of Robin Hood’s Bay, Dracula’s Whitby, Staithes, Runswick Bay and Saltburn, as well as passing through the beautiful Cleveland Hills and the North York Moors.

Alfie’s Story

After months of being ill and misdiagnosed on the 14th April 2021 Alfie was diagnosed with Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. This was the start of a roller coaster journey.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) is a type of blood cancer that starts from white blood cells called lymphocytes in the bone marrow. Over the next three years Alfie would face treatment almost every day as well as many hospital appointments. This treatment can have many negative effects on children, both physically and emotionally. Chemotherapy can damage healthy cells, leading to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and increased risk of infections. Some treatments may also affect a child’s growth and development, cognitive abilities, and fertility. Children may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and depression due to the disruption of their daily routines, social isolation, and fear of recurrence. To add to all of this Alfie was diagnosed when society was under Covid-19 restrictions which meant he could not have or access the usual support that is offered. However, with all this the way Alfie has conducted himself remarkably. Attending school more than expected and achieving what he should achieve, as well as integrating back into his much-loved football club and developing faster than expected.

This diagnosis did not only affect Alfie but it also affected his sister Emily. It is well known that when a child is diagnosed with cancer, it can have a significant impact on their siblings. Siblings may experience a range of emotions, from fear and worry to sadness and anger. They may feel left out or neglected as their parents focus on the sick child's care. Siblings may also feel guilty for not being able to help their brother or sister. It can be challenging for siblings to understand the changes in their daily lives, such as extended hospital stays or frequent doctor visits. Again all of this was compounded for Emily by the Covid-19 restrictions which meant that she could not be as integrated into Alfie’s recovery as much as she could have been. It has not been easy for Emily but she has taken everything in her stride.

It was clear from the start that Alfie and Alfie’s family had more support than most people experienced. From messages to gifts to unbelievable gestures from special people – the support never stopped.. Alfie and Emily were very lucky to be offered respite breaks on the East Coast which was still in the catchment of Leeds General Infirmary. These breaks offered a much-needed sense of normality and fun as well as escapism for the treatment Alfie was receiving. These breaks were provided through charities but unfortunately, the demand is too high for what is available.

This is why were are wanting to buy a caravan to offer respite breaks to children and families in similar situations. For Alfie and his sister they were invaluable and this caravan could be for many more children and families.

We aim to draw down all the funds and help and help Ruddis Retreat buy a new caravan.

Any form of donation would be really appreciated!