"He fought so hard": Evan Runs Rob Burrow Marathon in Memory of Dad

Evan is running the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on the 10th of May in memory of his Dad, who passed away after his battle with Motor Neurone Disease.

Diagnosed in October of 2021, his dad was only 53 years old at the time. Neither Evan nor his siblings had heard of the condition. He was given 3 years to live, and his condition worsened rapidly following the diagnosis.

"It was a fast learning process with lots of questions as to what was going to happen, and what medical care my dad would need along the way."

An active ex-forces man, he loved his sport, particularly football, for which he won many trophies as a goalkeeper. As such, he decided that he wanted to do one final challenge before he was unable to - he was going to climb Mount Snowdon.

"Despite the physical and mental challenges he faced, he was determined to create memories with myself, and my younger brother and sister."

They booked their holiday to Wales with help from the MNDA, and started the climb.

"On the 7th of June 2022, against all odds he made it to the top, alongside me, my siblings, and some of our extended family. It was a huge achievement, and something we all hold special memories from."

However, following this, his abilities started to significantly deteriorate, and began needing help in his day-to-day life. The house was adapted to support his needs, with handles and lowered kitchen units.

He eventually needed a wheelchair full-time, as he mainly struggled to walk as the disease took over his body. Also struggling with his breathing, he became dependent on breathing apparatus when he slept.

In August of 2024, the family threw a big party to celebrate his life.

"We named it the sunshine party. We partied into the night alongside family and friends, and Dad had an amazing night. We listened to his favourite song from the film Top Gun, and we ate his favourite flavour cake, too."

That year, he passed away on Christmas Eve, 3 years and 2 months after his diagnosis.

"He fought so hard, and we have so many wonderful memories together...That's why, at the age of 20, I've now decided to run the Rob Burrow Marathon in Leeds in his memory, and to raise awareness to help other people and families dealing with MND."