And Darrem Dumigan has set himself a tough task to achieve it – he’s taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge not only climbing Britain’s three tallest mountains, but also cycling between them in Scotland, the Lake District and in Wales.
Darren, 42, raises funds for Maxwell Smith who also lives in Thakeham with his family and suffers from mitochondrial disease.
Darren decided on the fundraiser after meeting Maxwell’s parents, Pete and Emma, through the school Darren’s son Jake attends.
Wife Jess said: ‘After meeting their amazing family and finding out they were trying to raise money for a wheelchair that would change Maxwell’s life, Darren knew he had to help.’
And it won’t be the first time Darren has taken on a fundraising challenge – he’s already raised thousands of dollars for local charities by completing the Ultimate Challenge, climbing nine mountains in 65 hours, while undertaking previously the Three Peaks Challenge.
“I’m looking forward to this next challenge,” said Darren. “It will be my toughest yet.
“It’s my first time cycling a long distance, so I really had to step up my training.
“I’m doing everything I can to make sure I complete the challenge and raise as much money as possible.”
A father of six, Darren began his epic fundraising efforts when he decided he needed to lose weight – and discovered a love for mountaineering.
His wife Jess said: ‘It was all about raising as much money as possible for local causes.
“That’s why Darren is so determined to raise £10,000 for Maxwell and his family.
“This wheelchair will not only change Maxwell’s life, but also that of his family.”
Darren hopes to take on his next challenge in August. He hopes the three mountains and about 416 miles of cycling traveling between them will be completed in about four days.
“It will be incredibly difficult, but with the donations coming in slowly, it pushes him to train harder than ever,” Jess said.
