Brother Completes 21-Hour Walk to Honor Sister's Memory and Raise Funds

Ashley Southall, a 31-year-old firefighter from Redditch, England, embarked on a grueling 21-hour trek to honor his late sister, Lucie Southall, who succumbed to leukaemia at the young age of 12 in 2013. This charity walk, which spanned over 50 miles, took place on a recent Friday, aiming to raise funds for the Lucie Southall Leukaemia Fund, established by the family in her memory to support families affected by the disease.

The journey commenced at a dedicated bench for Lucie in Arrow Valley Lake and concluded at Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham, a facility that provides vital accommodation for families whose children are receiving treatment at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. According to the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the center serves over 6,000 families annually, offering up to 60 accommodations at any given time (Ronald McDonald House Charities, 2021).

In a statement, Ashley reflected on the challenges faced during the walk, stating, “I felt okay for about 35 miles before the blisters and cramps set in.” He humorously noted the unexpected encounters with wildlife, including “an angry bull and fierce swans,” that added to the walk's difficulties. Despite the physical toll, Ashley expressed pride in completing the challenge, albeit with a vow of “never again.”

Lucie's cousin, David Southall, who was instrumental in organizing the event, had to abstain from participating due to a knee injury but still praised Ashley’s determination, saying, “Everyone that knows Ash knows that he is way out of his comfort zone but he’s also not someone that will give up easily.” The family aims to raise £5,000 to sponsor two rooms at Ronald McDonald House for three years, reinforcing their commitment to supporting other families in similar situations.

The Lucie Southall Leukaemia Fund has organized numerous fundraising events since its inception, contributing significantly to cancer research and family support initiatives. According to a report by Cancer Research UK published in 2022, childhood leukaemia remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among children in the UK, underscoring the importance of continued support and research in this area.

The Southall family’s efforts not only highlight the personal impact of cancer but also emphasize the wider community's role in supporting families facing such tragedies. As Ashley continues to raise awareness and funds, his journey serves as a poignant reminder of the need for collective action in battling childhood cancer and supporting those affected by it. The future of the Lucie Southall Leukaemia Fund appears promising, with ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing support for families navigating the complexities of childhood leukaemia treatment and care.