A DRIVEN Coventry man is taking on a series of gruelling endurance challenges in memory of three relatives who died from a severe type of muscular dystrophy.
Krishan Vara will take part in several ‘ultra-challenges’ to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy UK charity following the loss of his uncle and two cousins, who all had Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
On Saturday (July 4), the 44-year-old will head to the Lake District to attempt the charity’s Pedal, Paddle, Peak event – a 34km cycle, a 3km kayak and a 17km hike to the summit of Mount Helvellyn – joined by his friend Nick Herdman.
This year, Krishan has already completed the 70km Brecon to Cardiff Classic and the 50km Pembrokeshire Coastal Path race.
He will complete the Kielder Trail Marathon in October, and is aiming to do his own 70km before the end of the year.
Krishan said: “I’m on a personal fitness journey this year and wanted to commit to a series of endurance events, after completing my first one last year.
“My cousins were always full of positivity whenever I saw them despite living with a life-limiting condition. I truly believe they would have supported this challenge – not for themselves, but for the chance to help others living with a condition.”
He said he felt incredibly lucky not to have muscular dystrophy himself.
“That’s what makes this challenge feel meaningful,” he added, “putting my body through something difficult – moving, running, and walking for those who can’t.
“Every step is run in memory of those we’ve lost, and in support of families still living with this condition every day.
“Any amount raised will go a long way to help the charity support individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy and fund research.
“I haven’t set a fundraising target – I’ll be fundraising throughout the year, and appreciate anything people feel able to give.”
Muscular dystrophy affects more than 110,000 children and adults in the UK who are living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions. Visit musculardystrophyuk.org for more information on the disease.
Visit musculardystrophyuk.org/krishan to sponsor Krishan.
