When Will takes on Night Run this September, he won’t be running alone.
On the back of his shirt will be the words “Forever 22”. A tribute to his stepson Jack, who died last year aged just 22. Running alongside him will be his daughter Emily, Jack’s sister. Together, they’ll be taking every step in memory of a young man who left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
Jack had Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive condition that gradually weakened his muscles. By the age of 12, he was using a wheelchair full-time, but he never let his condition define him. He was fiercely independent, determined and full of personality. He loved football, video games, Star Wars and spending time with his friends. In later years, he even achieved one of his biggest goals – moving into supported independent living and enjoying nights out around Blackpool.
“Jack liked to have his independence,” says Will now.
“He was a very strong character. He knew what he wanted and he would do everything he could to get it. He wanted to achieve as much as he could.”
Throughout his childhood and teenage years, Brian House was a place where Jack could simply be himself.
Outside the hospice, people often saw his wheelchair first. At Brian House, they saw Jack. He spent weekends and short breaks at the children’s hospice, enjoying sleepovers with friends, movie nights, gaming sessions and unforgettable adventures. The nurses understood his complex medical needs, but they also shared his sense of humour and loved his mischievous streak.
Will says: “I remember when Jack was going to Brian House to spend the night or the weekend, and how much he loved it. He’d come back smiling, talking about what he’d been up to.”
For Jack’s mum, those visits provided something equally precious. The chance to rest, knowing her son was safe, happy and receiving expert care.
When Jack was at Brian House, he wanted people to understand what the hospice meant to families like his.
He said at the time: “At Brian House, they don’t see my wheelchair or my complicated care needs. To them, I’m just Jack.”
Today, his family continue to support Brian House because they know first-hand what a difference that care makes.
Last year, Will raised almost £2,000 through Night Run in Jack’s memory. This year, he hopes every runner will be inspired by Jack’s story to make their own miles count. You can donate to Will’s JustGiving page here.
Because every pound raised helps Brian House continue to provide specialist nursing care, fun, friendship and precious family support for local children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
