Milton Keynes man braved cold to run throughout January in memory of his 'hero' father

Michael Lemon, from Milton Keynes, braved severe weather to run 5k every day in January, raising £1,283 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger, Bedfordshire.

Michael, 50, who works as a Director of Sport at Akeley Wood Junior School, clocked up an impressive 155k in total – nearly 100 miles.

Michael was inspired to take on the lockdown challenge to raise vital funds for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in memory of his dad Roy Lemon.

Roy was cared for at home by the Palliative Care Hub team in his final few weeks in July 2020. The team provides palliative support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to people who have a life-limiting condition and prefer to receive care at home.

“Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice means the world – the care they gave to not only dad but my family has been second to none,” said Michael.

“In the last couple of weeks of dad’s life, the Sue Ryder staff were complete stars. They gave so much care. They were professional, caring, honest and supportive. All of the staff gave a really personal touch to my family. It was outstanding.”

Michael is an experienced runner, having previously completed the London Marathon in 2013. However, knee surgery three years ago meant his fundraiser was “challenging”.

He aimed to raise £250 and smashed his target, raising a total of £1,283 for the hospice.

“I’ve had lots of support and many a kind word,” he added. “If someone is thinking about doing something similar and taking on a challenge I would say go for it – don’t give up.

“I’ve been so proud of what I have done for Sue Ryder and my dad. I know he would have supported me all the way through. He was a great man, very well respected. We spent so many good times together. I suppose you could say he was my hero.”

Lucy Owens, community fundraising Officer at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “We are really grateful to Michael for pulling on his Sue Ryder vest and running every day throughout January to raise funds.

"We are very impressed with his determination to run every day, even in freezing cold snow! We support patients and their loved ones through the most difficult times of their lives. The money Michael has raised will help us to be there when it matters for other families and continue to provide our compassionate palliative care – thank you.”

You can support Michael through JustGiving here.