Harrison, eight, from Dunham-on-Trent set himself the challenge during the 2021 lockdown believing it would be a nice thing to do, in particular for his neighbour Diana, who works on the ATC at Bassetlaw Hospital.
Measuring the distance from his home to Man City’s Etihad stadium, Harrison decided he would run, jog and walk the distance in just six weeks, asking friends and family to sponsor his efforts, with the help of mum Charlotte.
A week earlier than anticipated, Harrison completed the 69-mile trek, running two miles most days over the period of five weeks, registering a distance just seven miles shy of three marathons. In this time, the youngster received the support of 116 donors, raising £2,190 and smashing his initial target of £300 in less than 24 hours, and a stretch goal of £1,200.
Speaking about his epic undertaking, Harrison said: “I wanted to raise money for the ATC Ward at Bassetlaw Hospital because it is the ward of my neighbour, Diana, and she has worked very hard helping people. I also chose the Children’s Ward to donate to so poorly children could have toys to play with when they have to be in hospital.
“Each day I ran as much as I could, usually two miles before school, and sometimes I did a long run of four or five miles – it was tiring but worth it! I want to thank everybody who has sponsored me, and I am really happy that this money will go to a nice cause. Now I can rest my legs for a bit before I think of my next challenge!”
Alongside toys for the Paediatric ward, the money raised by Harrison will be used to purchase televisions for bedded bays within the ATC Ward, as well as radios for side rooms. Due to visiting restrictions as well as other infection prevention measures, patients have less chance to socialise when staying in hospital, meaning days can feel very long,. However with the new additions provided by Harrison and his supporters, individuals will have more entertainment on hand in the future.
Richard Parker OBE, Chief Executive of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals and a backer of Harrison’s fundraiser, said: “I have been extremely impressed by Harrison’s efforts and have watched his progress keenly. Running 69 miles is an achievement at any age, but Harrison is clearly a very talented young man and this is matched by his thoughtfulness.
“The money Harrison has raised will make a real difference for our patients, and I want to thank him, his family and supporters, on behalf of everyone at Team DBTH. The past 12 months have been incredibly challenging, but the support shown by our communities has been overwhelming and gestures, such as the one undertaken by Harrison, have lifted our spirits at the times we have needed it most.”
Harrison, whose favourite City player is Sergio Aguero, is now looking forward to playing football with friends and family once lockdown lifts later this year.
If you wish to support Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital’s Charity, please go to dbth.nhs.uk/charity to download a fundraising pack or email dbth.charity@nhs.net to find out how you can get involved.