Stepping up for muscular dystrophy: Stoke fan walking miles ahead of matchday

Football-mad fundraiser, Paul Parsons, is taking on an epic two-day 54-mile challenge inspired by his friend’s eight-year-old daughter, who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2020. Paul tells us about his challenge.

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I know this is going to be a big challenge, but I’m inspired by my friend’s daughter and just wanted to do something to help raise money and awareness.

I’m a massive Stoke City fan and last year, I completed a 38-mile walking challenge from Stoke City Football Club to West Bromwich Football Club in 10 and a half hours, months ahead of running the London Marathon.

Determined to go bigger and better

This year, I’m determined to go ‘bigger and better’ so am aiming for 54 miles!

I’ll set off from Stoke City Football Club at 6am on Thursday 26 February, and aim to arrive at Coventry City Football Club at 5pm the following day. After covering the distance of two marathons, I’ll then watch the game between the two sides on Saturday 28 February.

Then in April, I’m running the TCS London Marathon 2026 – all to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK.

Originally, I planned on attempting the full 54 miles in one day. But, after taking advice from a running coach, I’ve opted to break it down over the two days. The recovery from completing 54 miles straight could’ve hampered my marathon training, so I’ve decided on the slightly more sensible option.

Many people would say I’m nuts for even attempting it in the timeframe I’ve allowed myself. I’m not going to lie, the challenge I’ve set myself is my biggest and hardest to date. I’m slightly nervous. But the fact I’m doing it to raise funds and awareness of a charity that means so much to me makes it all worthwhile.

Running journey

I took up running in 2018. Being overweight, I always wanted to improve my fitness, so I took up a couch to 5k program and really enjoyed it. I gradually started running more and found that it helped me both physically and mentally.

I chose to support Muscular Dystrophy UK, a charity close to my heart, as my friend’s young daughter lives with a muscle wasting condition and now is wheelchair bound. It touched my heartstrings and I wanted to do something to raise awareness.

I applied for a London Marathon place last year and there’s been no looking back since. I’m pushing myself beyond limits and it fills me with pride that I’m doing it for such a special cause.

Donate to Paul’s walk

To donate £5 to Paul’s Muscular Dystrophy UK walk, text GIVE5 to 70255.

To donate £10, text GIVE10 to 70255.

You must be 16 or over and have the bill payer’s permission. Each text to this number costs £5/£10 plus your standard network message charge (based on your service provider rates). Muscular Dystrophy UK is a charity registered in England with charity number 205395. For full terms and conditions and more information, please click here.