By Isle of Wight Observer
An Isle of Wight man is preparing to complete 13 fund-raising events over 13 months, for Mountbatten IW in memory of his late mother.
Former young carer turned personal trainer, Josh Langan, is marking his 21st birthday with a series of themed challenges designed to test his physical limits, while aiming to raise £10,000 for the Island hospice.
His first challenge will take place on Sunday, April 26, when he plans to walk 21km (13 miles) from Shanklin Beach – his mum’s favourite place – to the John Cheverton Centre, in Newport.
Josh was just 14 when his mum, Sam, died in Mountbatten’s care.
He said: “The emotional weight of when there’s a family member in the hospice is a lot to carry. When my mum was originally referred, it was for rehab but we knew she didn’t have long.”
Josh said he now uses physical challenges to honour her memory and raise awareness of the charity. “Since my mum died, I’ve tried to mark her memory each year by taking on a personal challenge to raise money and awareness for Mountbatten.
“This year, I turn 21 years old and it feels like the right moment to go bigger than ever.”
Future plans include public charity boot-camps, a 50km (31 miles) coastal walk from Cowes to Ventnor, and a 21-hour continuous fitness challenge.
Mountbatten community fund-raiser, Harri McNeil, said: “Josh’s plans sound amazing and a lot of hard work. We are looking forward to supporting him on his fund-raising journey, and can’t wait to see what he achieves.”
To support Josh, visit his JustGiving page at iw.observer/stronger-for-mum.
Mal Butler