To commemorate what would have been his dad’s (Rex) 75th birthday, lifelong Lepra supporter Tom Barton decided to embark on an impressive Test Way Challenge run.
Tom ran the Test Way, starting at the Inkpen in Berkshire and finishing at Eling Tide Mill in Southampton on Sunday 26th May, completing an inspiring 44-mile run in 9 hours 30 minutes. Tom has raised over £1,200, with all funds being raised for UK-based international charity Lepra.
Tom explained why he chose to undertake this challenge for Lepra, he said:
“My fundraising efforts for Lepra began when I was less than 6 months old, by collecting for Lepra Flag Day with my mum outside our local Sainsbury’s.
“Since then, I have run 11 Marathons for Lepra, and I feel privileged to be able to help in a small way knowing that each pound raised is put to good use. Having seen first-hand the devastation that this disease can cause, as well as the discrimination and prejudice directed against people who already live under difficult circumstances, has inspired me to continue to raise awareness that leprosy is still very much an active disease.”
Every day 600 men, women and children will be diagnosed with leprosy, with more than 50 of these being children. Leprosy affects millions of the most vulnerable people in the world, causing life-changing disabilities and attracting extreme prejudice and discrimination.
But there is a cure.
Lepra works to beat leprosy in India, Bangladesh and Mozambique by finding, diagnosing and treating people affected by the disease.
You can support Tom by donating to his fundraising page here.
Those who are interested in fundraising for Lepra are advised to email: fundraising@lepra.org.uk to find out about opportunities and how to get involved.