Lucy’s run to help her brave father

August 14, 2007, 12:16pm
By Tarik Al Rasheed, United Kingdom
http://www.ledburyreporter.co.uk/new...ave_father.php

A LEDBURY farmer's battle with Parkinson's Disease has inspired his daughter to run a gruelling half marathon.

James Bristow, who has lived and worked at Fairtree Farm for the past 35 years, was diagnosed with the progressive neurological disorder in 1998.

Since then he has received invaluable help from the Parkinson's Disease Society and that support has inspired his daughter Lucy to raise money to help their search for an elusive cure.
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Although she has never done any long distance running before Lucy has started training for the 13-mile Bristol Half Marathon, which takes place on September 9.

"Despite his ordeal my dad remains good natured and never complains - his bravery is breathtaking," she said. "I wish I could cure my dad, who has spent his life helping and supporting me throughout mine.

"Unfortunately, I can't wave a magic wand but perhaps I can contribute in a small way towards helping find a cure for Parkinson's sufferers in the future."

Despite suffering from the disease 83-year-old Mr Bristow remains active.

Although he has had to give up his life-long love of sailing he still works on the farm as much as he can and enjoys an occasional round of golf.

Mr Bristow said the help he had received from the Parkinson's Disease Society and their specialist nurses had been a great benefit over the last decade.

"The money that Lucy raises will help the thousands of people who suffer from the disease," he said. "I am a very proud dad and I will be at the marathon to cheer her on and wish her luck."

Parkinson's Disease Society spokesman Jayne Dunn said the efforts of people like Lucy were vital for the continuation of their work. The money will be used to fund the charity's ground-breaking research projects and to help provide information and support to people living with the condition," she said.

Any sponsorship money pledged to Lucy's run will be doubled by her Bristol-based recruitment firm Lucy Bristow Appointments. To make a donation log on to www.justgiving.com/lucyrunrun.

Carolyn - thank you - this is so great!