A Cambridgeshire father-of-two is embarking on an epic challenge to run three marathons, nine 10Ks and five half-marathons over the course of a year in memory of a close friend.
Ross Paterson’s so called ‘395 challenge’ in aid of Brain Tumour Research begins on Sunday (17th March) when he takes part in the Rome Marathon. His fundraiser has been created with friend Steve Holbrook (pictured above left with Ross) at the fore, 395 being Steve’s collar number throughout his 15-year career with Bedfordshire Police.
In March 2015, Steve was diagnosed with a glioblastoma (GBM) after suffering from headaches, vision problems and a sudden loss of feeling down the left-hand side of his body. He underwent surgery, radiotherapy and various types of chemotherapy but sadly died in November 2016, aged 37.
Ross, 41, said: “I met Steve in 2003 – he was one of my best mates. Seeing him go through what he did was horrible but also inspiring because he never came across as defeated. He was determined to live the best life he could for as long as possible.”
Following Steve’s diagnosis, friends and family raised more than £66,000 for Brain Tumour Research – enough to sponsor 24 days of research at any of our four Centres of Excellence.
Ross, who ran the 2013 Paris Marathon with Steve, said: “The 395 challenge was my wife Kat’s idea. Yes, it’s a crazy challenge but it means something, and when Steve was going through treatment he still managed to run lots of races and raise money for Brain Tumour Research.
“Steve knew what was going to happen to him in a relatively short time and would have done any trial, taken any medication possible to try and prolong his life. Things have got to change and funding research means that others will have the chance to live longer, better lives.”
To support Ross’ fundraising for Brain Tumour Research, visit www.justgiving.com/page/ross-paterson-395.
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