Father completes running challenges to support theatre group
A Bridlington father has completed two running challenges in memory of his daughter – raising more than £1,500 in the process.
Stephen Blackford ran the Yorkshire Marathon on Sunday, October 19 as a tribute to daughter Chelsea Blue, who sadly passed away in April 2021 while at Cygnet Mental Health Hospital.
Earlier this year, he also completed the Great North Run.
Mr Blackford, who ran the course dressed as a pantomime dame, is raising funds for Y Perform in Scarborough, a musical theatre group for youngsters.
Two of his daughters, Madison, 17, and Scarlet, 8, attend the group, and he believes that it has provided them with a safe space to thrive.
Mr Blackford set up a JustGiving page with a fundraising target of £1,500 to support the group.
He originally looked to bring in £1,000 but quickly soared past this landmark. The total currently stands at £1,524 thanks to donations from 102 supporters.
Go to tinyurl.com/kt88uubv to support his campaign.
Mr Blackford said: “I completed the Yorkshire Marathon dressed as ‘Lady Pap-Poon’ for the Y Perform group.
“Not sure how I managed the feat as I was still struggling to walk properly before the event and not been able to run while at sea on the treadmill due to bad weather thanks to Storm Amy.
“I then pulled my calf the day after I came ashore, so it was a miracle I got around the course.
"I went to see a sports therapist called Sasha Woods in Scarborough regarding the calf issue, and I don’t think I would of been able to complete the marathon without her help.
"What kept me going all the way round the course was knowing that Chelsea blue was by my side, probably laughing at me running in a dress and knowing that my family was waiting at the finish line, so I had to get there.
"Seeing their faces and hearing them cheer was just amazing.
"Two of my daughters are attending the Y Perform group.
“Clubs like this are very important and sometimes overlooked when it comes to a child’s wellbeing – that’s why I’m raising funds for Y Perform.
"I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has donated to the group via the JustGiving page.”