Dad takes on 351km running challenge for daughter and Stick 'n' Step

A determined father is taking on an extraordinary running challenge to support the charity that has helped transform his daughter's life. Simon Li, from Runcorn, whose daughter Zahara, aged 8, attends conductive education sessions at Stick 'n' Step, is fundraising for the charity by completing the Chester Triple, a demanding series of races consisting of a 10K, Half Marathon and Metric Marathon.

Having already successfully completed the 10K and Half Marathon events, Simon now has his sights firmly set on the final challenge, the 26km Metric Marathon on 11 October 2026.

Alongside the Chester Triple, Simon is also taking part in the charity's Stick 'n' Steptember Challenge by creating his own unique fundraising initiative. From 16 September, Simon will run increasing daily distances, starting with 1km on day one, 2km on day two, 3km on day three and so on, culminating in 26km on race day.

By the end of the challenge, Simon will have covered an incredible 351km in 26 consecutive days, averaging 13.5km every day. During the final week alone, he will effectively complete the equivalent of six half marathons.

Adding a community element to the challenge, Simon will be joined by friends, family members and colleagues throughout the 26 days, with supporters running alongside him in person or virtually. He will be sharing their stories and progress across social media to help raise awareness of Stick 'n' Step and encourage donations.

Simon said,

Like many families at Stick 'n' Step, we've seen first-hand the difference conductive education can make. Zahara works incredibly hard at every session and constantly inspires us with her determination and positivity. Taking on the Chester Triple was already a big challenge, but I wanted to do something that would really raise awareness of the amazing work Stick 'n' Step does for children and families. Running 351km in 26 days won't be easy, but every kilometre will be worth it if it helps more children access the support they need.

I'm also excited to have friends, family and colleagues joining me along the way. Their support will keep me going and hopefully encourage more people to get involved, whether that's by running, sharing the challenge or making a donation.

Sarah Smithson, CEO of Stick 'n' Step, said,

We are very grateful to Simon for taking on such an ambitious challenge in support of Stick 'n' Step. Families like Simon's understand the impact our services have on children's lives, and fundraisers like this help ensure we can continue supporting families across the region. We wish Simon the very best of luck for the challenge and look forward to cheering him on every step of the way.

Simon is inviting members of the local community to support his challenge by joining him for a run, following his journey on social media or making a donation.

For more information or to donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/simon-li-11

Stick ‘n’ Step provides weekly conductive education sessions to children and young people with cerebral palsy up to the age of 25. The charity relies on supporters and volunteers to help raise over 90% of the £750,000 required to deliver its services to over 100 families each year at its Wallasey and Runcorn centres. Find out more about the charity by visiting www.sticknstep.org.